Description
A quick and healthy sautéed spinach recipe flavored with garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Perfect as a nutritious side dish, this recipe highlights fresh baby spinach cooked to tender perfection with a touch of olive oil and butter for richness.
Ingredients
Scale
Spinach
- 1 1/2 pounds baby spinach leaves
Seasoning and Flavor
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic (small cloves, grated using a zester)
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- Lemon zest and juice (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Rinse your spinach leaves thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Use a salad spinner or gently pat dry with towels to remove excess moisture.
- Sauté Garlic: In a very large pot over low heat, add the olive oil and grated garlic. Cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to release the garlic’s fragrance without burning it.
- Add Spinach and Season: Add the spinach leaves along with the kosher salt and black pepper. Using tongs, toss the leaves well to coat them evenly with the garlic oil mixture. Cover the pot and let the spinach cook for 2 minutes to begin wilting.
- Finish Cooking: Remove the lid, stir the spinach thoroughly, and increase the heat to high. Continue cooking and stirring for about 1 more minute until the spinach is fully wilted and a bright green color.
- Serve: Remove from heat and top the spinach with a pat of unsalted butter, a pinch of fresh lemon zest, and a drizzle of lemon juice. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the spinach; it should remain bright green and tender, not mushy.
- Grating the garlic finely helps it integrate evenly and prevents large raw pieces.
- Adjust lemon juice amount to your taste preference for brightness.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a healthy side to rice or pasta.
