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Garlic Sautéed Spinach

This garlic sautéed spinach is a simple yet flavorful side dish that highlights the earthy greens and fragrant garlic. The cooking process involves quickly wilting fresh spinach in hot oil, allowing the garlic to release its savory aroma, resulting in tender, glossy leaves with a warm, savory flavor. It’s a quick, nourishing dish with a final appearance of vibrant, wilted greens coated in a fragrant, slightly oily glaze.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups fresh spinach rinsed and dried
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • to taste flaky sea salt for seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • a pinch red pepper flakes optional for heat

Equipment

  • Wide skillet
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Small bowl
  • Kitchen paper towel

Method
 

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the minced garlic cloves to the hot oil and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden.
  3. Add a handful of spinach to the skillet, stirring gently to coat it with the garlic and oil. Repeat with remaining spinach in batches if needed, until all the greens are wilted and vibrant green, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Season the greens with a pinch of flaky sea salt and red pepper flakes if using, then squeeze in the lemon juice and stir to combine everything evenly.
  5. Cook for another minute until the spinach is tender, glossy, and fragrant, then remove from heat.
  6. Transfer the spinach to a serving dish and enjoy immediately while hot and shimmering with flavor.

Notes

For added richness, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or toasted pine nuts just before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste, and feel free to add more lemon or chili flakes for extra brightness or heat.