Tender, garlicky sautéed spinach that comes together in minutes! This quick and healthy side dish is packed with nutrients, flavor, and pairs perfectly with nearly any main course—from crispy tofu to roasted potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Simple Sautéed Spinach is the perfect go-to side dish when you need something fast, healthy, and full of flavor. The garlic adds a wonderful aromatic depth to the spinach, while a quick sauté helps retain all the nutrients, making it both light and nourishing. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with any main course, whether you’re serving it with a hearty protein like tofu or a simple roasted vegetable dish. With minimal ingredients and only 10 minutes to prepare, this sautéed spinach will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 10 oz (285g) fresh spinach, washed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil or vegan butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the fresh spinach in batches if necessary, tossing gently to coat in the garlic oil. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes, until the spinach is just wilted.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty finish (optional).
- If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 95 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili for a spicy kick.
- Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or vegan cream for a creamy variation.
- Herbaceous: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to the garlic oil for more flavor.
- Nutty: Toast some pine nuts or chopped almonds and sprinkle them on top for extra texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Sautéed spinach is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat for a minute or two, or microwave briefly until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before sautéing it. Fresh spinach will give a better texture, but frozen is a great option for convenience.
How do I keep the spinach from becoming soggy?
To prevent soggy spinach, avoid overcrowding the pan and sauté the spinach in batches if necessary. Also, don’t overcook it—spinach wilts very quickly, so 2–3 minutes is all you need.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes to create a more complex dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While sautéed spinach is best served fresh, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The texture may soften slightly upon reheating, but it will still taste delicious.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Simply use vegan butter or olive oil, and you’ve got a fully vegan side dish!
Can I use other seasonings in this dish?
Absolutely! You can add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or season with a dash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
Conclusion
This Simple Sautéed Spinach is an easy, quick, and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its tender greens, savory garlic, and optional zesty lemon finish, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a versatile dish that works with just about any main course, from proteins like tofu to hearty grains. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or as part of your meal prep, this sautéed spinach will be a go-to in your kitchen for its simplicity and deliciousness.
Simple Sautéed Spinach
Tender, garlicky sautéed spinach that comes together in minutes! This quick and healthy side dish is packed with nutrients, flavor, and pairs perfectly with nearly any main course—from crispy tofu to roasted potatoes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Vegan, Healthy
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 10 oz (285g) fresh spinach, washed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
- Add fresh spinach, working in batches if necessary. Toss gently and sauté until just wilted—about 2–3 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if using.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, try sprinkling some red pepper flakes or a pinch of nutmeg while sautéing.
- If you prefer a creamy version, stir in a tablespoon of vegan cream or coconut milk after cooking.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg