Parmesan Spinach Side Dish

User Reviews

5

51 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    3 mins

  • Cook Time

    2 mins

  • Total Time

    5 mins

  • Servings

    2 servings

  • Calories

    265 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    Italian

Parmesan Spinach Side Dish

This Parmesan Spinach side dish is a quick sauté of baby spinach with garlic, butter, and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. The spinach is cooked just until wilted to preserve its bright color and tender texture, while the butter and garlic provide a rich base and the Parmesan adds a savory finish.

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.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 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 Details
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%)

Nutrition 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.

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Overall Rating

5

51 reviews
Excellent

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