Wilted Spinach
Wilted spinach with crispy bacon and tangy vinegar dressing offers a savory, slightly sweet flavor profile, perfect as a side dish for brunch or light meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon into half-inch lengths with scissors and sauté with the chopped onion for 10 minutes.
- Remove bacon to crisp; blend flour into the remaining fat in the pan.
- Gradually add water and vinegar, cooking over low heat until thickened.
- Add salt, sugar, pepper, then the shredded spinach and chopped celery.
- Toss lightly until vegetables are coated with the dressing and heat until just warm.
- Sprinkle crumbled crisp bacon over the top and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, you can substitute turkey bacon or pancetta for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and sauté the onions in olive oil. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor of the spinach. Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit, and consider using fresh spinach for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve wilted spinach as a warm side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Baked Chicken With Rice And Corn Dressing. You can also add it to a salad for extra flavor and texture or serve it over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Crumbled feta or goat cheese on top can enhance the dish further.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the spinach. You can also add a splash of water or broth to help revive the dish without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wilted Spinach contains roughly 134 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1974mg per serving (86% 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 make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure the spinach is heated through and well combined with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider reducing the amount of bacon or using a leaner option like turkey bacon. You can also increase the amount of vegetables, adding more celery or even incorporating bell peppers or mushrooms for additional nutrients and flavor.
What can I serve with wilted spinach?
Wilted spinach goes well with various dishes, especially grilled chicken or fish. It can also complement hearty American recipes like meatloaf or serve it alongside pasta dishes. For a casual meal, consider pairing it with Stuffed Hamburger Birds for a delicious family dinner.
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).