Spinach With Burghul

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: Mediterranean

A wholesome Mediterranean-style spinach and burghul dish with tender greens and nutty grains, perfect as a healthy side or light main for any meal.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. fresh spinach
  • 1 large onion
  • 1 c. coarse burghul
  • 1/4 c. oil
  • salt

Instructions

  1. Lightly brown the onion in oil.
  2. Add spinach, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle washed burghul on top of the spinach.
  4. Cover tightly and simmer for about 10 minutes or until burghul is tender.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more robust flavor, consider adding minced garlic along with the onion. You can substitute quinoa for burghul if you're looking for a gluten-free option. Ensure to rinse the burghul thoroughly before adding it to the dish for better texture. If you prefer a richer taste, using olive oil instead of regular oil will enhance the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish warm as a main course or as a hearty side alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Summer Vegetable Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding a dollop of yogurt on top or serving it with a side of White Bean Dip With Toasted Pita Chips for a Mediterranean touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water to the dish and warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This will help prevent the burghul from drying out and maintain the dish's moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spinach With Burghul contains roughly 2176 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 235g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 726mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).

2176 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.2g 6% DV
Total Fat 235.5g 100% DV
Carbs 21.2g 8% DV
Fiber 1.9g 7% DV
Sugar 3.2g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 726.2mg 32% DV
Potassium 213.4mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 117.3mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 8mg 9% DV
Calcium 43.7mg 3% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV

* % 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 substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using. This will help avoid excess moisture in the dish. Frozen spinach is a convenient option and can still provide great flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when the burghul is cooked properly?

The burghul should be tender but still slightly chewy. After simmering for about 10 minutes, taste a small amount to check its texture. If it's too firm, you can add a little more water and continue to simmer until it reaches your desired doneness.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge. Just portion it out into containers for easy grab-and-go meals. Reheating it gently will keep the flavors intact, making it a convenient and nutritious option throughout the week.

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).

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