Creamed spinach, with its velvety texture and rich, savory flavor, is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with a wide range of main courses. While it may seem like a dish reserved for special occasions, you can enjoy this creamy delight any day of the week with this fast and easy recipe. In just a few simple steps, you can create a side dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into making fast and easy creamed spinach that will elevate any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Cooking the Spinach:
- Start by washing the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any tough stems or wilted leaves.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown; garlic can quickly become bitter if overcooked.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. You might need to do this in batches, as it can initially take up a lot of space. Stir frequently as the spinach cooks down.
- Cook the spinach for about 2-3 minutes, or until it wilts and becomes tender. Keep in mind that spinach cooks quickly, so be attentive.
- Once the spinach is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain any excess liquid. You can do this by pressing the cooked spinach against a fine-mesh strainer or by gently squeezing it with clean hands. This step helps prevent your creamed spinach from becoming too watery.
Making the Creamed Spinach:
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and heat it over medium heat.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream, stirring until it’s fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the cream sauce with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Nutmeg adds a subtle, warming flavor that complements the spinach beautifully.
- Return the cooked and drained spinach to the skillet with the cream sauce. Stir everything together until the spinach is well coated and heated through.
Serving and Enjoyment:
- Serve your fast and easy creamed spinach hot as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, steak, grilled fish, or as a filling for baked potatoes.
Tips
- Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: While fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen spinach in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the cream sauce.
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg is optional but highly recommended. It adds depth to the flavor profile of the creamed spinach.
- Consistency: Adjust the cream sauce’s consistency to your preference. If you like it thicker, cook it a bit longer. If you prefer it thinner, add a splash of cream.
Fast and easy creamed spinach is a side dish that’s both elegant and effortless. With the richness of cream and the earthy goodness of spinach, it’s a classic combination that never goes out of style. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend feast, this creamy delight will add a touch of gourmet to your meal. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of fast and easy creamed spinach as you savor each spoonful.
