Creamed Spinach
Indulge in the velvety goodness of creamed spinach, a timeless classic that elevates any meal. This dish combines fresh spinach with a rich, creamy sauce, making it the perfect side for steak, chicken, or even a vegetarian feast. With its delightful texture and flavor, this creamed spinach recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow along to learn how to prepare this delicious dish that’s both satisfying and simple to make.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1/4 of the dish) contains around 210 calories, 18g fat, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g protein. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, stirring frequently.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix well.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and add a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if preferred.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use low-fat cream cheese. For a vegan alternative, try using cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy products.
Serving and Pairings
Creamed spinach pairs wonderfully with steak, grilled chicken, or fish. It also complements roasted vegetables or can be served alongside a hearty grain dish for a vegetarian meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the spinach can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not seasoning adequately can result in bland flavors.
- Using low-quality cheese may affect the dish’s overall taste.
- Rushing the cooking process can prevent the flavors from developing.
- Forgetting to squeeze lemon juice can miss the bright finish.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor.
- Make it ahead of time and reheat just before serving.
- Consider adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for creamed spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the desired consistency of the dish.
What can I serve with creamed spinach?
Creamed spinach is versatile and pairs excellently with meats or seafood. It can also be served with pasta or as part of a vegetarian meal alongside grains.
How do I make creamed spinach ahead of time?
You can prepare creamed spinach a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stove before serving. Add a bit of cream to adjust the consistency if needed.
Is creamed spinach healthy?
While creamed spinach is rich and creamy, it does offer nutritional benefits from spinach, including vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber. Moderation is key to enjoying this dish healthily.
Can I add protein to creamed spinach?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even bacon to creamed spinach for a heartier dish. Just mix in the protein during the final stages of cooking.
Conclusion
Creamed spinach is a delightful side dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite main course, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy goodness and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Creamed Spinach
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach washed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, stirring frequently.
- Reduce the heat to low and add cream cheese, stirring until melted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix well.
- Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and add a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if preferred.