Parmesan Spinach Side Dish
User Reviews
5
Parmesan Spinach Side Dish
Description
The Parmesan Spinach Side Dish uses salted butter browned briefly with smashed garlic to infuse flavor. Fresh baby spinach is added and tossed quickly over medium heat until it just wilts, maintaining a vibrant green color and fresh taste. Half of the Parmesan cheese is stirred in before removing from heat, then the remaining cheese is grated on top to provide a contrasting texture and flavor. Seasoning with salt and pepper is adjusted carefully due to the saltiness of the butter and cheese.
This preparation keeps the spinach light and tender without overcooking, making it an excellent side for a variety of main dishes. Its quick cooking time makes it practical for weeknight meals.
The notes emphasize avoiding overcooking, which can cause bitterness and mushiness, and adding the final Parmesan off heat to avoid sticking or melting too much on the pan. Trimming stems from fresh, bunched spinach allows them to be saved for other uses such as juicing or soups.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter salted is best
- 3 cloves garlic smashed with the flat side of a knife
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1 lb baby spinach washed and large stems trimmed, or fresh spinach
- 1-2 ounces Parmesan Cheese such as Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano, grated, good quality
Notes
- Cook spinach just until barely wilted, usually under 2 minutes, to avoid bitterness and mushy texture.
- Remove the pan from heat before adding the final sprinkle of Parmesan to prevent cheese from sticking or melting excessively.
- Season carefully with salt because of the salty butter and cheese; adjust to taste.
- Save trimmed spinach stems for use in juices, soups, or smoothies to reduce waste.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 265 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 265kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 13g | 65% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 55mg | 18% |
| Sodium | 542mg | 23% |
| Potassium | 1302mg | 28% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 21903IU | 438% |
| Vitamin C | 65mg | 72% |
| Calcium | 406mg | 41% |
| Iron | 6mg | 33% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.