Creamy Spinach with a Zesty Twist

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 18 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a comforting and creamy spinach dish that's got a little extra zing. This recipe elevates the classic creamed spinach with a bright splash of lemon, making it a versatile side dish for any meal.

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach with a Zesty Twist

The base of this dish is unsalted butter, giving you control over the seasoning and providing a rich flavor. Onion adds sweetness and depth, while garlic brings a hint of warmth. A pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg seasons the dish perfectly, with nutmeg adding a subtle earthiness that complements the spinach.

Using fresh spinach leaves ensures vibrant color and flavor. The heavy cream makes the dish indulgently creamy, and Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami punch. Finally, a touch of lemon juice brightens everything up, cutting through the richness beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your spinach is particularly wet, pat it dry before adding it to the skillet to prevent watering down the sauce.
  • For a thicker sauce, let the cream simmer a bit longer before adding the cheese.
  • Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy spinach pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or steak. It's also a great sidekick to a hearty roast, or you can mix it into pasta for a quick and easy dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve it with grilled mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prep the onion and garlic ahead to save time.

Creamy Spinach with a Zesty Twist Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting your butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it's melted, toss in your finely chopped onion. Give it about five minutes to get soft and translucent. When the onion reaches that sweet spot, add in your minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute. This quick step ensures the garlic doesn't burn, keeping its flavor mellow.

Next, season your onion and garlic with salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg. Stir them around to let those spices meld together. Now, it's time to add the spinach. Do this gradually; add a handful, let it wilt a bit, and then add the next. It might look like a lot at first, but spinach cooks down quickly.

Once all the spinach is in and wilted, pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, just until it starts to thicken up. As a final touch, stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and the sauce is smooth. Finish everything off with a splash of lemon juice for that zingy twist, and serve it up right away.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — just 20 minutes from start to finish.
  • Perfectly balances creamy richness with a zesty lift.
  • A great way to enjoy more greens with minimal fuss.
  • Proven hit at dinner parties and family gatherings alike!

Ingredients

2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
10 oz fresh spinach leaves, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and nutmeg, stirring to combine.
5. Add spinach leaves a handful at a time, allowing them to wilt before adding more.
6. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
8. Finish with lemon juice and serve immediately.

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