Creamed spinach is a delectable side dish that combines the earthiness of spinach with a rich, creamy sauce, making it a delightful addition to any meal. This dish not only brings vibrant color to your plate but also packs a nutritious punch, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Whether served alongside steak or as part of a vegetarian feast, creamed spinach is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of creamed spinach contains about 250 calories, 20g fat, 5g carbohydrates, 3g fiber, and 8g protein. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving and may vary based on ingredient choices.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Wash and thoroughly drain the spinach, removing tough stems.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the spinach for 2 minutes.
- Drain the spinach and immediately place it in ice water to stop cooking.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach and chop it finely.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Mix in the chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently until heated through.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version or use almond milk for a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for a vegan option, adding a similar cheesy flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Creamed spinach pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as steak or chicken, and it complements roasted vegetables nicely. It’s also a great addition to pasta dishes or as a filling for stuffed chicken breasts.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to maintain its creamy texture. It is not recommended to freeze creamed spinach, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking spinach can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not squeezing out excess water can make the dish watery.
- Skipping the nutmeg can diminish the flavor depth.
- Using low-quality cream can affect the overall taste.
- Neglecting to season properly can result in blandness.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- For added flavor, incorporate sautéed onions or shallots.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the dish.
Is creamed spinach healthy?
Creamed spinach can be nutritious, as spinach is rich in vitamins. However, the cream and cheese add calories, so enjoy it in moderation.
Can I make creamed spinach ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or even a touch of hot sauce for a flavor boost.
How long does creamed spinach last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Creamed spinach is a classic dish that brings a unique blend of flavors and textures to your table. Its creamy, rich profile makes it a favorite for many occasions, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Creamed Spinach
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly drain the spinach, removing tough stems.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the spinach for 2 minutes.
- Drain the spinach and immediately place it in ice water to stop cooking.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach and chop it finely.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Mix in the chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently until heated through.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
