Description
A quick and healthy sautéed garlic spinach recipe featuring fresh spinach leaves cooked with fragrant garlic and seasoned with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This simple side dish is perfect for adding a burst of flavor and nutrition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 8 cups fresh spinach, washed (about 1 lb)
Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Oils
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, high quality
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit, then drain well to avoid excess water during cooking. Mince the garlic finely to release maximum flavor during sautéing.
- Heat the oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the extra virgin olive oil. Heat it until it shimmers, signaling it’s hot enough for sautéing, but not smoking.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the heated oil and sauté it gently until it becomes fragrant but does not brown, about 1-2 minutes. This step infuses the oil with garlic flavor.
- Cook the spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and toss it using tongs. Continue to cook until the spinach is completely wilted, which should take 2-3 minutes.
- Season and serve: Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the wilted spinach. Toss everything to combine evenly. Serve the sautéed garlic spinach immediately as a nutritious side dish.
Notes
- Use fresh, young spinach leaves for best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook the spinach, as it can become mushy and lose nutrients.
- You can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness if desired.
- Serve immediately to maintain the spinach’s vibrant color and texture.
