15-Min Steak with Lemony Garlic Spinach
A quick and nutritious meal featuring perfectly seared lean steak paired with vibrant, lemony garlic spinach, ready in just 15 minutes.
For 1 serving
Pat the steak thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat until it just begins to smoke, about 3-4 minutes. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. Sear for 2-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature 130-135°F / 54-57°C), depending on thickness. For a richer flavor, add the optional butter to the pan after flipping, and baste the steak with the melted butter as it cooks.
Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board or plate and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and flavorful result.
While the steak rests, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the fresh spinach to the pan. Cook, tossing frequently, until the spinach is just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the wilted spinach. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Toss once more.
Slice the rested steak against the grain into desired thickness. Serve immediately alongside the lemony garlic spinach.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Remove steak from heat 5°F before desired final temperature as it will continue to cook while resting.
- 2Ensuring the steak is completely dry before searing is crucial for achieving a beautiful, crispy crust.
- 3Don't skip resting the steak! It makes a significant difference in tenderness and juiciness.
- 4Spinach cooks down very quickly. Remove it from heat as soon as it wilts to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Swap
Substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or even broccoli rabe for a different texture and flavor profile. Blanch tougher greens first.
Herb AdditionHerb Addition
Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or a sprig of rosemary to the pan with the garlic for an aromatic boost.
Spice EnhancementSpice Enhancement
Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle heat, or a dash of smoked paprika for depth.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Muscle Repair & Growth
Lean steak provides essential amino acids vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions.
Enhanced Iron Uptake
The combination of heme iron from steak and Vitamin C from lemon significantly boosts the absorption of both heme and non-heme iron, crucial for energy and preventing anemia.
Vitamin & Mineral Rich
Spinach is packed with vitamins K, A, and C, folate, and manganese, supporting bone health, vision, and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh is preferred for texture, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding to the pan to prevent a watery dish.
