Sautéed Frozen Spinach
A quick and healthy side dish made with frozen spinach, sautéed with fragrant garlic and a hint of lemon. Ready in minutes, it's the perfect way to add greens to any meal.
For 2 servings
Prepare the spinach and garlic.
- Thaw the frozen spinach completely. You can do this in the microwave or by leaving it in the fridge overnight.
- Place the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much water as possible. This is key to avoid a watery dish.
- Finely mince the garlic cloves.
TIPGetting the spinach really dry ensures it sautés nicely instead of steaming in the pan.Sauté the garlic.
Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet or pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30-60 seconds until it's fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown or burn.
TIPCooking the garlic briefly in oil infuses the entire dish with its flavor.Cook the spinach.
Add the dry, squeezed spinach to the skillet. Use a spoon to break up any clumps. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is heated all the way through.
Season and serve.
Remove the pan from the heat. Season the spinach with salt and black pepper. If using, stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Squeezing the spinach is the most important step for a great texture. Don't skip it!
- 2Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the spinach from sticking with less oil.
- 3For a bit of warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg along with the salt and pepper.
- 4This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Reduce the olive oil to 1 tablespoon and add a splash of water while sautéing to prevent sticking. This will lower the overall calorie count.
high proteinHigh protein
Stir in a quarter cup of cooked chickpeas or top with a handful of toasted pine nuts before serving.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or grated Parmesan at the end to make it creamier and milder for kids.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Iron
Spinach is a great plant-based source of iron, which is essential for creating hemoglobin and preventing anemia.
Excellent Source of Vitamin K
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health, and spinach is one of the best dietary sources.
Supports Heart Health
The use of olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. Spinach is an excellent source of iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. Sautéing with olive oil adds healthy fats, making it a nutritious side dish.