Boot Scootin' Spinach
Boot Scootin' Spinach offers a creamy, flavorful side with the vibrant taste of salsa and feta cheese. Perfect for spinach lovers and those seeking a quick, savory dish, its combination of cheesy richness and zesty salsa makes it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Precook the frozen leaf spinach as directed on the package.
- Drain the spinach, then add butter to it.
- Add half and half and salsa to the spinach mixture.
- Cook in a large frying pan until bubbling hot.
- Add half and half as needed for desired consistency.
- Stir in crumbled feta cheese.
- Let the mixture cook down to your preferred thickness, not too soupy.
- Optionally, add a touch of garlic for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some minced garlic in the butter before adding the spinach. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for half and half for a lighter option. If you're short on time, fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen; just cook it down until wilted. Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or Parmesan for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a hearty side alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. For a delightful twist, serve it as a layer in a vegetarian recipe like lasagna. Garnish with additional feta and chopped fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of half and half if the mixture thickens too much. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can change the texture of the spinach.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Boot Scootin' Spinach contains roughly 723 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 968mg per serving (42% 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 use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used in this recipe. You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach to replace the frozen. Sauté it until wilted before adding the other ingredients, as fresh spinach cooks down significantly.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the half and half with coconut milk or a cashew cream. Replace the feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What can I serve with Boot Scootin' Spinach?
This spinach dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken or fish, or can be served as a filling side with pasta. Consider serving it alongside Tess' Salad for a refreshing contrast, or use it as a topping for baked potatoes.
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).