Creamed spinach with garlic is a delicious and nutritious side dish that complements a wide variety of main courses. It is rich in flavor, creamy in texture, and packed with essential nutrients.
This recipe combines fresh spinach leaves with aromatic garlic, creamy cheese, and a touch of spices to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you are a vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more greens into your diet, this creamed spinach recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients:
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:.
- 2 pounds fresh spinach leaves
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Spinach
Start by washing the spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water. Remove any tough stems or blemished leaves. You can use a salad spinner to dry the spinach leaves or simply pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Sautéing the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown, taking care not to burn it. This will take approximately 1-2 minutes. Garlic adds a delightful aroma and flavor to the creamed spinach.
Step 3: Adding the Spinach
Once the garlic is nicely sautéed, add the spinach leaves to the skillet. You may need to add the spinach in batches, depending on the size of your pan. Stir fry the spinach for a couple of minutes until it wilts down.
It is essential to cook the spinach just until wilted to maintain its vibrant green color and prevent it from becoming mushy.
Step 4: Preparing the Cream Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combining the Spinach and Cream Sauce
Pour the prepared cream sauce over the cooked spinach in the skillet. Gently stir everything together until the spinach is well coated in the creamy mixture. Allow the creamed spinach to simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serving
Taste the creamed spinach and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Once seasoned to your liking, transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Creamed spinach with garlic is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:.
- Serve it alongside grilled steak or roasted chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Pair it with seared salmon or grilled shrimp for a delicious seafood dinner.
- Use it as a topping or filling for stuffed mushrooms or crispy phyllo pastry cups for an elegant appetizer.
- Enjoy it as a main course by adding cooked pasta, such as penne or fusilli, and topping it with some extra grated Parmesan cheese.
However you choose to serve it, creamed spinach with garlic is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.