Breakfast & Side Dish

Spinach Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

Name: Spinach Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 3 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil; 2 generous bundles of fresh spinach, roughly 1 pound; Pinch of sea salt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Kelly Blackford June 22, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving headfirst into this delicious recipe, let’s give a thought to what goes well with your spinach masterpiece. Spinach is a versatile green that can complement a variety of dishes.

It pairs marvelously with items like grilled chicken, feta cheese, or nutty grains such as quinoa or farro. A splash of citrus-infused dressing on a crisp garden salad can elevate your entire meal.

Picture a plate that marries the rich, earthy flavors of sautéed spinach with a perfectly seared salmon fillet. Delicious, right?

Why This Spinach Recipe is Great For You

I’ve dabbled in the kitchen for quite some time, and I must say, this spinach recipe has secured a top spot in my go-to list. Why, you ask? Spinach is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and magnesium.

This leafy green is not just a pretty fluff on your plate; it actually works hard to keep you feeling vibrant and energized.

What’s catchy about this recipe is the simplicity. Few ingredients combine to create something that feels fancy while remaining easy to whip up on a weeknight.

As a registered dietitian, I’m always looking for meals that are easy to prepare but satisfying. This recipe allows you to enjoy the perks of fresh greens without spending hours in the kitchen.

How I Use the Ingredients in This Recipe

Let’s talk about the ingredients. First, there’s garlic, my culinary soulmate. The moment those thinly sliced cloves hit the pan, I can smell the aroma wafting through the house.

It gets my taste buds salivating; it’s no wonder it’s often referred to as a flavor enhancer.

Then, there’s high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Good olive oil isn’t just a grocery item; it’s an investment in flavor. I always keep a bottle on hand.

A drizzle elevates every dish to new heights. When mixed with the lemon juice, it creates a zesty dressing that gives character to the spinach.

Now we come to the star of the show—fresh spinach. There’s something delightful about picking out crisp, vibrant greens to bring home.

For this recipe, I use about one pound. It’s massive once you initially pack it in, but it wilts down considerably.

A pinch of sea salt and some freshly ground black pepper add that additional flavor kick, setting everything off just right.

The lemon juice is the finishing touch; it brightens up the dish and helps to cut through the richness of the olive oil, making every bite refreshing.

Ingredients List with Measurements

3 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil

2 generous bundles of fresh spinach, roughly 1 pound

Pinch of sea salt

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make the Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This step might seem mundane, but trust me—having everything ready keeps the cooking flow smooth. Slice the garlic thinly so it gets a nice, even cooking. Wash the spinach well; nobody wants grit in their greens!

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large skillet, combine the two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm up. This is where your kitchen starts to smell like a trattoria. Add the thinly sliced garlic to the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Keep a close eye on the sautéing garlic. You want it to turn golden, not burnt—about 1 to 2 minutes should do the trick. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the scent doesn’t beckon people to the kitchen, I don’t know what will!

Step 4: Add the Spinach

Once your garlic is golden, it’s time for the spinach. Pile it in; it may seem overwhelming, but it will reduce significantly in volume as it cooks down.

Stir the spinach around in the pan, allowing it to wilt gracefully, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. The vibrant color will catch your eye.

Step 5: Season It Up

With your spinach wilted, season it with a pinch of sea salt and a teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mixing in those flavors is key! Then, sprinkle a tablespoon of lemon juice over the top. This moment transforms the dish and gives it a fresh zing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well-combined, remove your skillet from the heat. You can serve this lovely dish hot as a side or let it cool slightly before tossing it with pasta. Either way, it’s a winner!

Recipe Notes

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth to this dish. You might think garlic is garlic, but using fresh cloves versus pre-minced makes a world of difference.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Quality matters here. A good oil will have a peppery kick and fruity undertones, enriching the dish’s flavor.
Spinach: Look for vibrant, crisp leaves. Spinach wilts down significantly when cooked, so don’t be surprised by the size difference.
Salt & Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a punch that pre-ground just can’t provide. The sea salt enhances the natural flavors beautifully.
Lemon Juice: Fresh juice is best! The zesty brightness brings all the flavors together, making the dish pop.

Recipe Variations

Spinach is a fantastic starting point, but you can experiment with this recipe in countless ways.

Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
Different Greens: Kale or Swiss chard could also work if you’re looking to change things up.
Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving adds a savory finish.
Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add a crunchy element, enhancing texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it before adding it to the skillet.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this spinach recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

3. Can this dish be made vegan?

Yes! It’s already vegan as-is. Enjoy the fresh flavors without any dairy.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You might notice the spinach losing its bright green hue, but the flavor remains intact.

5. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While you can use garlic powder, fresh garlic brings a richer flavor. If you must, use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder but keep in mind that freshness counts.

6. How can I make this dish more filling?

For a heartier option, you can mix in whole-grain pasta or quinoa. This addition will not only fill you up but also add more nutritional value.

Conclusion

This spinach recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, nutrition, and flexibility. From my encounters in the kitchen, I know how a humble plate of sautéed greens can elevate a meal, transporting you to the coziest Italian eatery you can imagine. Gone are the days of bland salads and lifeless sides—spinach has come out to shine!

So, whether you decide to serve this dish with your favorite protein or as a light, standalone delight, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Remember, good ingredients lead to great meals, so have fun with it! Happy cooking!

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