Sesame Spinach
A quick, flavorful stir-fry featuring tender spinach, fragrant garlic, ginger, and scallions, coated in a savory soy and sesame sauce. Perfect for a healthy, Asian-inspired side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar in a small bowl.
- Heat the oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add garlic, ginger, and scallions to the skillet.
- Saute for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add spinach and stir-fry until cooked but still crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Pour in the soy mixture and heat through.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant dish, try adding a splash of citrus juice, like lemon or lime, to the soy mixture. You can substitute the spinach with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard if desired. To enhance the flavor, consider adding sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This dish pairs well with Teriyaki Beef Bok Choy for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sesame spinach as a side dish alongside grilled proteins or rice dishes. It complements Asian-inspired meals beautifully and can be served with teriyaki chicken or tofu for a wholesome vegetarian option. For a complete dinner, consider pairing it with Guatemalan Fried Rice for a delightful fusion experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the spinach from becoming overly wilted. Adding a splash of water can help steam the dish back to life, ensuring it retains its flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Spinach contains roughly 107 calories, with 3g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2076mg per serving (90% 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. The cooking time may be slightly shorter since frozen spinach is already blanched.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This sesame spinach is great for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain its texture, and pair it with your favorite proteins or grains when serving.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Certainly! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a more substantial dish. Stir-fry the protein with the garlic, ginger, and scallions before adding the spinach for a delicious one-pan 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).