Spinach And Garlic
A vibrant sauté of fresh spinach with garlic and anchovies, enriched with butter, delivering a savory, umami-packed side perfect for Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash spinach and pat dry.
- Tear into pieces and remove thick stems.
- Place in a large pan; sprinkle with salt, cover and cook a few minutes.
- Remove spinach from pan and squeeze out excess liquid.
- Melt butter in a skillet.
- Add the spinach, chopped anchovies, minced garlic, and pepper.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cook for 5 minutes over low heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or substituting the anchovies with capers for a vegetarian option. Be sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit. If you're short on time, pre-washed spinach can be a great shortcut. This dish also pairs beautifully with Mushroom Parmesan Salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach and garlic warm as a side dish, ideal alongside grilled chicken or fish. It can also be a delicious topping for grilled pizza with red peppers and cheese. For a light meal, consider serving it over pasta for a quick vegetarian option. A squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors, too.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 or a little extra butter to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the spinach soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Garlic contains roughly 333 calories, with 7g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (118% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% 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, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking. Fresh spinach has a lighter texture and flavor, while frozen may yield a denser dish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen spinach will require less time to cook through.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute olive oil for the butter. It will give the dish a different taste but will still complement the spinach beautifully. For a dairy-free option, consider vegan butter or a blend of coconut oil and olive oil.
How do I know when the spinach is cooked properly?
Cook the spinach until it is wilted and bright green, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of nutrients. Keep an eye on it, and remember, it will continue to cook a bit after being removed from the heat.
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).