Barbara'S Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach with a rich white sauce and savory onions offers a creamy, flavorful side perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the white sauce slowly in a pan.
- Add the frozen spinach and chopped onion to the sauce.
- Stir until the spinach is fully defrosted and heated through, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the sauce. If you prefer fresh spinach, you can substitute about 1 pound of fresh spinach for the frozen, but be sure to sauté it first to remove excess moisture. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of the dish, making it even more delightful.
Serving Suggestions
This creamed spinach pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side dish for holiday meals. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or a beef tenderloin for a complete meal. It also complements dishes like Ginger Marble Cake, adding a nice contrast with its rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the creamed spinach in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking. You can also add a little bit of milk to loosen it up if it thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Creamed Spinach contains roughly 237 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamed spinach ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of serving, then allow it to cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently when you're ready to serve for a quick and easy side dish.
What can I substitute for thick white sauce?
If you don't have thick white sauce on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts butter and flour to create a roux, then whisking in milk until you achieve your desired consistency. Alternatively, a store-bought cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup works well.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the thick white sauce with a plant-based alternative, such as a homemade cashew cream or a store-bought vegan cream sauce. Ensure that the frozen spinach is free from any animal-derived ingredients, and you'll have a delicious vegan creamed spinach dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).