Are you tired of bland, soggy vegetables that drain your culinary enthusiasm? Get ready to transform your side dish game with this mouthwatering Clean Eating Garlic Spinach recipe that will make even the most veggie-averse eaters beg for seconds! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a nutrient-packed, incredibly delicious dish that's so simple yet so sophisticated, it'll become your go-to green side in no time.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the fresh spinach leaves under cool running water, ensuring all dirt and debris are removed. Gently pat dry with clean paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them using a sharp knife or a garlic press. Aim for uniform, small pieces to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 30 seconds until it becomes slightly shimmering but not smoking.
- Add the minced garlic to the heated olive oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden.
- Gradually add the fresh spinach leaves to the pan, using tongs or a spatula to gently fold the leaves into the garlic and oil mixture.
- Cook the spinach for 2-3 minutes, continuously turning and mixing the leaves. The spinach will begin to wilt and reduce in volume.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, continuing to toss the spinach to ensure even seasoning.
- Remove the pan from heat when the spinach is just wilted but still bright green and maintains a slight crispness. Be careful not to overcook, which can make the spinach mushy.
- Transfer the garlic spinach to a serving dish immediately to prevent further cooking and preserve its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Serve hot as a side dish or as part of a balanced meal, enjoying the fresh garlic flavor and nutritious spinach.
Tips
- Always use fresh spinach and dry it thoroughly to prevent watery results
- Use a high-quality olive oil for maximum flavor infusion
- Control your heat carefully when sautéing garlic to prevent burning
- Add spinach in batches if your pan is small to ensure even cooking
- Season gradually and taste as you go for perfect seasoning
- Serve immediately to maintain the spinach's vibrant color and crisp texture
- For extra flavor, consider adding a small pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 35kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
