Garlicky Mushroom and Spinach Skillet
A quick and savory side dish where earthy cremini mushrooms are perfectly browned and tossed with fresh spinach and a hint of garlic and chili. Ready in under 15 minutes, it's a versatile addition to any meal.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Brown the mushrooms
- b.Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- c.Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown.
- d.Stir the mushrooms and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they have released their liquid and are nicely browned all over.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add garlic and wilt the spinach
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- c.Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
- d.Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in handfuls. It will seem like a lot, but it will wilt down quickly.
- e.Gently toss the spinach with the mushrooms until it is just wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Finish and serve
- b.Remove the skillet from the heat.
- c.Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- e.Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best browning, make sure your mushrooms are dry and don't crowd the pan. Cook in two batches if necessary.
- 2Don't add salt to the mushrooms until after they are browned. Salting them early draws out water and makes them steam instead of sear.
- 3Keep a close eye on the garlic as it can burn quickly. Sliced garlic is best for infusing flavor without being overpowering.
- 4This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Use only 1 tablespoon of oil and add a splash of vegetable broth to help wilt the spinach instead of extra oil.
high proteinHigh protein
Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked chickpeas or cannellini beans at the end for a protein and fiber boost.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red pepper flakes for a non-spicy version. You can also stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese at the end.
quickQuick
Use pre-sliced mushrooms to save on prep time. This dish is already very fast to make!
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Spinach is an excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin A, iron, and folate, which support bone health, vision, and red blood cell production.
Provides Antioxidants
Mushrooms contain antioxidants like selenium and ergothioneine, which help protect the body's cells from oxidative stress and damage.
Supports Heart Health
The combination of garlic, olive oil, and potassium from the vegetables can contribute to better heart health by helping manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Low-Calorie and Nutrient-Dense
This skillet is packed with flavor and nutrients but is very low in calories, making it an ideal choice for a healthy diet and weight management.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's low in calories and packed with nutrients. Spinach provides vitamins K and A, while mushrooms offer B vitamins and antioxidants. It's a great way to add vegetables to your meal.