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Spinach with Raisins and Pine Kernels

Spinach with Raisins and Pine Kernels

Looking to elevate your dinner table with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition? Look no further than our delightful "Spinach with Raisins and Pine Kernels"! This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the earthiness of fresh spinach with the sweet pop of raisins and the crunch of toasted pine nuts, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave your guests asking for seconds. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant side dish that not only looks stunning but also packs a nutritional punch. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  2. 1/4 cup raisins
  3. 1/4 cup pine kernels
  4. 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare all ingredients by washing the spinach thoroughly, ensuring it is clean and free from any dirt or debris. Pat the spinach dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up and become shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add pine kernels to the heated olive oil and toast them gently, stirring constantly. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn them.
  4. Introduce the raisins to the pan and sauté them briefly with the pine kernels, allowing them to slightly plump up and absorb the olive oil's flavor.
  5. Add the chopped spinach to the pan in batches, stirring continuously. The spinach will begin to wilt and reduce in volume quickly.
  6. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring even distribution of seasoning.
  7. Continue cooking the spinach for 3-4 minutes until it is completely wilted but still maintains a vibrant green color and slight texture.
  8. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish, ensuring the pine kernels and raisins are evenly distributed throughout the spinach.
  9. Serve immediately while warm as a side dish or light vegetarian option.

Tips

  1. Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, organic spinach for the best flavor and nutrition. The fresher the spinach, the brighter and more vibrant your dish will be.
  2. Watch the Pine Nuts: Pine nuts can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on them while toasting. Stir constantly and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn golden brown.
  3. Raisin Soak: For an extra burst of sweetness, consider soaking the raisins in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the pan. This will plump them up and enhance their flavor.
  4. Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste as you go to ensure your spinach is well-seasoned. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.
  5. Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread. Serve it warm for the best experience!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 250kcal

Carbohydrates: 15g

Protein: 7g

Fat: 20g

Saturated Fat: g

Cholesterol: 0mg

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