Spinach Garlic Sauté Recipe

Olive oil: This is the base for sautéing and adds a rich, fruity flavor to the dish.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a pungent and aromatic flavor that complements the spinach.

Fresh spinach: The star of the dish, fresh spinach is packed with nutrients and has a mild, slightly sweet taste.

When sautéing garlic, be sure to keep a close eye on it as it can burn quickly. To prevent this, you can lower the heat slightly once the garlic starts to turn golden. This will ensure that the garlic infuses the olive oil with its flavor without becoming bitter.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and a mild flavor that complements the dish.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a slight sweetness and richness to the sauté.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the spinach well.

• garlic - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can add a similar depth of flavor in a pinch.

• fresh spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale has a similar texture and can hold up well in a sauté.

• fresh spinach - Substitute with Swiss chard: Swiss chard has a slightly earthy flavor and similar nutritional benefits.

• Allow the spinach garlic sauté to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled spinach to an airtight container. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal for maintaining freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The spinach garlic sauté will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, spread the cooled spinach on a baking sheet in a single layer. This prevents clumping and makes it easier to portion later.
• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the spinach is frozen solid.
• Transfer the frozen spinach to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the spinach garlic sauté in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to refresh the flavors.
• Avoid microwaving the spinach as it can become mushy. Instead, opt for stovetop reheating to maintain the texture and taste.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or a splash of water to the pan.
  3. Add the leftover spinach garlic sauté.
  4. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover spinach garlic sauté in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 30 seconds if needed.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the leftover spinach garlic sauté in an even layer on a baking dish.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water.
  2. Place the leftover spinach garlic sauté in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 3-5 minutes, or until heated through.

• Sous Vide Method:

  1. Place the leftover spinach garlic sauté in a vacuum-sealed bag.
  2. Set your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C).
  3. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 20 minutes.

• Large pan: A spacious cooking vessel that allows the spinach to wilt evenly without overcrowding.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the garlic and spinach gently to avoid damaging the leaves.

• Garlic press: Useful for mincing the garlic quickly and efficiently.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the olive oil for consistent flavor.

• Colander: Handy for washing and draining the spinach thoroughly before cooking.

• Paper towels: Useful for drying the spinach after washing to prevent excess water from affecting the sauté.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for mincing the garlic.

• Chef's knife: Essential for mincing the garlic finely and safely.

• Salt and pepper mills: Allows for freshly ground seasoning to enhance the dish's flavor.

Pre-mince the garlic: Mince the garlic in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge to save time during cooking.

Use pre-washed spinach: Purchase pre-washed spinach to eliminate the need for washing and drying, speeding up your prep time.

Heat the pan first: Start heating the pan while you prepare the ingredients to reduce overall cooking time.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge for a quick and easy meal later in the week.