Description
A quick and healthy sautéed spinach recipe featuring tender baby spinach leaves cooked with aromatic garlic and onions, seasoned lightly, and optionally brightened with a squeeze of lemon juice. Perfect as a nutritious side dish ready in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil (olive or avocado)
- ¼ cup onion (finely chopped)
- 1–2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 8 ounces baby spinach leaves (divided)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- Lemon juice (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Remove stems from the baby spinach leaves if preferred, discarding them. This ensures tender, leaf-only sautéed spinach.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until onions become translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release their aroma.
- Sauté Spinach in Batches: Add half of the baby spinach leaves to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes until they start to wilt. Add the remaining spinach, then season with salt and black pepper. Continue cooking and stirring for another 2-3 minutes until all the spinach is fully wilted and tender.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh baby spinach for best texture and flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste for preferred seasoning.
- Lemon juice adds a bright, fresh flavor but can be omitted if desired.
- Do not overcook spinach to maintain its vibrant green color and nutrients.
- Use a large skillet to allow space for spinach to sauté evenly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sautéed spinach, garlic spinach, healthy side dish, quick spinach recipe, baby spinach sauté
