Maxine'S Spinach
Maxine's Spinach offers a savory blend of spinach and bacon with garlic and butter, perfect as a flavorful side dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 1/2 cup water to a boil with bacon slices.
- Add frozen spinach and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add butter, garlic powder, and salt; simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a touch of flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon. If you're short on time, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the dish. For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and use olive oil instead.
Serving Suggestions
Maxine's Spinach makes a great side dish for grilled meats or as part of a brunch spread alongside Jeanne's Baked Eggs. It pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or can be served over toasted bread for a savory appetizer. Consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maxine'S Spinach contains roughly 109 calories, with 6g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 743mg per serving (32% 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, you can use fresh spinach! If using fresh, you'll need about 1 pound. Just wash and chop it, and add it to the boiling water after the bacon has cooked for a few minutes. Reduce the simmering time to about 5-7 minutes until wilted.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make Maxine's Spinach healthier, you can reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon for a leaner option. Additionally, you might substitute the butter with olive oil and adjust the salt to your preference. Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the flavor without added calories.
What can I serve with Maxine's Spinach?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or grilled fish. You could also serve it alongside Parmesan Potato Salad for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a light soup or salad to round out the meal.
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).