Lemon & Garlic Sautéed Spinach
This Lemon & Garlic Sautéed Spinach is a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly quick side dish that comes together in just 5 minutes. Its bright, savory flavors make it a versatile accompaniment to almost any main course.
For 4 servings
Thoroughly wash the fresh spinach and shake off as much excess water as possible. You can also use a salad spinner to ensure it's dry, as this prevents watery spinach.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the thinly sliced or minced garlic.
Sauté the garlic for about 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Add the fresh spinach to the pan. If your pan isn't large enough to hold all the spinach at once, add it in batches, allowing the first batch to wilt slightly before adding more. Use tongs to gently toss the spinach.
Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-4 minutes, or until the spinach has completely wilted but still retains its vibrant green color. Avoid overcooking, which can make it mushy.
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the spinach is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.
Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish to your favorite protein or grain.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcrowd the pan: If cooking a large amount of spinach, sauté it in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming, which can lead to soggy results.
- 2Dry your spinach well: Excess water on the spinach can dilute the flavors and make the dish watery. A salad spinner is your best friend here.
- 3Watch the garlic closely: Garlic burns quickly. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly to achieve a fragrant, golden hue without bitterness.
- 4Fresh is best: Always use fresh garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor profile in this simple dish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbaceous Boost
Stir in a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or dill along with the lemon juice for an added layer of fresh, aromatic flavor.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
For added texture and richness, toast a quarter cup of pine nuts or slivered almonds in a dry pan before you start, then sprinkle them over the finished spinach.
Cheesy IndulgenceCheesy Indulgence
For non-vegan diets, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving adds a wonderful salty, umami kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Spinach is packed with vitamins K, A, and C, as well as folate, iron, and magnesium, supporting bone health, vision, and energy.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Garlic, lemon, and spinach are all rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Heart Healthy
Olive oil, a monounsaturated fat, combined with the cholesterol-lowering properties of garlic, contributes to cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh spinach is recommended for its texture and vibrant color, you can use frozen. Thaw it completely, then squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the pan to prevent a watery dish.
