Sautéed Spinach

Published: September 21, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This sautéed spinach recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients
The flavor is fresh and vibrant with hints of garlic and lemon
Its bright green color adds visual appeal to any plate
You can serve it as a side or incorporate it into other dishes like pasta or omelets

I still chuckle when I think about that time I served sautéed spinach alongside grilled chicken; my brother-in-law thought it was some exotic delicacy he’d never tried before! flavorful Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Spinach: Look for bright green leaves without yellowing, as they indicate freshness and flavor.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves for maximum aroma and taste, minced finely to blend perfectly with the spinach.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances both flavor and health benefits.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed adds brightness; bottled just won’t compare.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the natural flavors of the vegetables.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preparation: Begin by washing your fresh spinach leaves thoroughly under cool water. nutritious Fall Harvest Salad Shake off excess moisture; a salad spinner works wonders here if you have one.

Cooking: Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic tastes like sadness.

Adding Spinach: Toss in all your fresh spinach at once. It may seem like too much, but trust me; it wilts down significantly! Stir occasionally until the leaves are wilted and tender, approximately three minutes.

Seasoning: Once wilted, squeeze half a lemon over the spinach and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. The acidity from the lemon truly elevates this dish!

Serving: Transfer your beautifully sautéed spinach to a serving dish while it’s still warm. zesty Parmesan Lemon Chicken You can garnish it with additional lemon zest or parmesan cheese if you desire extra flair.

Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy this versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with almost anything from grilled meats to pasta dishes! savory Brown Butter Butternut Squash Pasta.

You Must Know

Sautéed spinach is not just a side; it’s a flavor-packed nutrient boost
Quick to cook, it retains vibrant color and texture
You can enjoy it with various dishes or incorporate it into pasta, omelets, or sandwiches for an extra punch of healthiness

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant before tossing in fresh spinach. Stir continuously until wilted, which takes about three minutes for maximum flavor without losing nutrients.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your sautéed spinach with ingredients like red pepper flakes for heat, lemon juice for brightness, or toasted pine nuts for crunch. Pairing it with feta cheese can also elevate the dish’s taste and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover sautéed spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly sautéed spinach, wash greens thoroughly to remove grit
Always use fresh garlic for better flavor enhancement
Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of sautéing

There was that one time I made sautéed spinach for my friend’s dinner party. Everyone raved about how simple yet delicious it was—who knew they’d love a leafy green so much?

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain excess water before sautéing.

What can I add to sautéed spinach for more flavor?

Consider adding garlic, onion, or even balsamic vinegar for depth.

Is sautéed spinach healthy?

Absolutely! It’s low in calories and packed with vitamins A and C along with iron.

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📖 Recipe Card