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Sautéed Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe

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4 from 13 reviews

This Sautéed Spinach recipe is a quick and flavorful way to prepare fresh baby spinach with sautéed shallots and garlic, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this healthy side dish is ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 16 oz baby spinach (fresh)
  • 1 small shallot (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Oils & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Red pepper flakes (to taste – optional)

Optional Toppings

  • 1 tablespoon Parmesan (grated – optional)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving – optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the shallot: Add the diced shallot to the skillet, stir, and cook for 1 minute until softened.
  3. Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  4. Add the spinach: Add the fresh baby spinach leaves to the skillet, then immediately cover the pan to allow the spinach to quickly wilt.
  5. Cook covered: Let the spinach cook covered for 1 minute, then uncover and stir for a few seconds. Cover again and cook for another 1 minute.
  6. Finish cooking: Uncover the skillet and stir, cooking for about 30 seconds more until the spinach is fully wilted but retains a bright green color.
  7. Season: Stir in kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste, then remove the skillet from the heat.
  8. Transfer to plate: Immediately transfer the sautéed spinach to a serving plate to prevent browning in the hot pan.
  9. Serve: Serve warm, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side.
  10. Store: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Use fresh baby spinach for the best texture and flavor.
  • Be careful not to overcook the spinach to maintain its bright green color and nutrients.
  • Red pepper flakes add a nice hint of heat but are entirely optional.
  • Parmesan cheese adds a savory finish but can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
  • Lemon wedges provide a fresh citrus contrast and brighten the flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat