Creamed spinach is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for adding a touch of creamy elegance to any meal. This classic dish transforms simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful side that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
The star of this dish is spinach, a nutrient-dense leafy green that becomes luxuriously creamy when cooked. You'll need about 2 lbs, which seems like a lot, but it wilts down significantly. The unsalted butter provides a rich base for the sauce, while the all-purpose flour helps thicken it into the perfect consistency. Whole milk adds a creamy texture, while a hint of ground nutmeg brings warmth and complexity. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper to bring out all the flavors. Finally, grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory finish that ties everything together.
Creamed spinach is versatile and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, like chicken or beef. It's also a classic side for a holiday turkey or ham. Try serving it alongside mashed potatoes for a complete comfort food feast!
Start by washing and trimming the spinach, removing any tough stems you come across. This ensures your finished dish has a silky texture. Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once it's bubbling, toss in the spinach for a quick 2-minute blanching. This brief bath helps preserve the vibrant green color and tenderizes the leaves. Quickly drain the spinach and plunge it into a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, squeeze out the excess water and give it a coarse chop.
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. As soon as it’s melted, add the flour, whisking it continuously for about 2 minutes. This forms a roux, which is the base of your creamy sauce. Slowly add the milk, whisking all the while to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take around 5 minutes. Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
Now, it’s time to bring in the spinach. Stir it into the sauce, allowing it to heat through and soak up all those lovely flavors. Last but not least, add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well incorporated, and serve while warm.
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