Sautéed spinach with garlic is a quick, simple, and nutritious side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. This vibrant dish is packed with flavor, offering a perfect balance of garlicky goodness and tender spinach leaves, all sautéed to perfection in just a few minutes. With minimal ingredients and a short cook time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want to get a healthy, flavorful side dish on the table fast.

The idea for this Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic came about one evening when I was looking for a quick and healthy way to use up some fresh spinach in the fridge. I decided to keep things simple with just a few ingredients that would allow the spinach to shine. The result was a deliciously garlicky, slightly savory side dish that would complement any meal. From that point on, this dish became my go-to for a fast, wholesome vegetable side.

What makes Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic so special is its versatility. You can serve it with just about anything—grilled meats, roasted chicken, pasta, or even as a topping for a grain bowl. It’s also a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s a perfect dish for anyone looking for a low-calorie, nutrient-packed option that’s quick and easy to make.

Why This Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic?

Selling Points:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a fast, nutritious side.
• Flavorful: The garlic brings out the natural savory flavors of the spinach, making this dish far from bland.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Spinach is packed with iron, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dish a great choice for boosting your health.
• Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need a long list of ingredients—just fresh spinach, garlic, olive oil, and a few seasonings to make this dish shine.
• Versatile: Pairs well with almost any main course and can be easily customized by adding spices, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

What You Need for Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic (Ingredients Section)

• 1 lb fresh spinach (about 10-12 cups, washed and trimmed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a zesty touch)
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

How to Make Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Prepare the Spinach:
   • If you’re using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and remove any tough stems. Spinach wilts down significantly when cooked, so you’ll need a large amount of fresh spinach to end up with a good serving.
2. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden (but not browned, to avoid bitterness).
3. Add the Spinach:
   • Gradually add the spinach to the skillet in batches, allowing it to wilt down as you go. Stir occasionally to ensure the spinach is evenly coated in the garlic and oil.
4. Season the Spinach:
   • Once the spinach has fully wilted (which should only take 3-4 minutes), season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’d like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the spinach for a bright, zesty finish. Give the spinach a quick toss, and then remove it from the heat.
   • Serve the sautéed spinach immediately as a side dish or as a topping for your favorite meal.

Tips for the Perfect Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, it’s best to sauté the spinach in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures that the spinach wilts evenly and cooks properly.
• Avoid Overcooking: Spinach cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. The leaves should wilt just enough to retain their vibrant green color and fresh texture.
• Flavor Variations: For a more complex flavor, you can add some toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. For a more Mediterranean flair, toss in some olives or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Use Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach can work in a pinch, fresh spinach is best for this recipe. It provides a better texture and more vibrant flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

• Oil Alternatives: Instead of olive oil, you can use butter for a richer, more indulgent flavor, or a light drizzle of avocado oil for a different taste.
• Spices and Herbs: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cumin for a warm, earthy flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme also work well with sautéed spinach.
• Cheese: For added richness, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the spinach just before serving.
• Add-ins: To make this dish more filling, you can add sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or even a poached egg on top for a complete meal.

Make a Healthier Version

This dish is already pretty healthy, but to make it even lighter, you can cut back on the oil or substitute with a cooking spray. You can also add extra veggies, like diced bell peppers or zucchini, for additional nutrients without adding many calories. If you’re looking for even more flavor, try adding a small amount of low-sodium vegetable broth instead of oil to sauté the garlic and spinach.

Closing for Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

The Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create something truly flavorful and nutritious. It’s quick, healthy, and versatile enough to complement nearly any meal. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats, pasta, or just enjoying it as a standalone dish, this sautéed spinach will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this easy-to-make side dish that is packed with health benefits, and make it a go-to recipe for your weeknight meals or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can use frozen spinach in place of fresh, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before sautéing.

How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I make this dish vegan? Yes, this dish is naturally vegan when made with olive oil, and it can be served with a plant-based meal.

Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the spinach for added flavor and texture.

How can I make this dish spicier? You can add red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to give the spinach a spicy kick.

This dish is simple, tasty, and packed with nutrients—just what you need for a quick and healthy side. Try it today and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Easy Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh spinach (about 10-12 cups, washed and trimmed)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a zesty touch)

• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Directions

• Prepare the Spinach:
• If you’re using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and remove any tough stems. Spinach wilts down significantly when cooked, so you’ll need a large amount of fresh spinach to end up with a good serving.
• Heat the Oil:
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden (but not browned, to avoid bitterness).
• Add the Spinach:
• Gradually add the spinach to the skillet in batches, allowing it to wilt down as you go. Stir occasionally to ensure the spinach is evenly coated in the garlic and oil.
• Season the Spinach:
• Once the spinach has fully wilted (which should only take 3-4 minutes), season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’d like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
• Finish and Serve:
• Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the spinach for a bright, zesty finish. Give the spinach a quick toss, and then remove it from the heat.
• Serve the sautéed spinach immediately as a side dish or as a topping for your favorite meal.