I absolutely adore Creamed Spinach! It’s one of those side dishes that just instantly takes me back to my childhood. My mom used to whip it up for special family dinners, and it was always a hit. There’s something so comforting about that rich, creamy texture combined with the earthy flavor of spinach. It’s like a warm hug on a cold night! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens onto your plate without anyone complaining. Yes, I’m looking at you, picky eaters!
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it alongside a juicy steak, as part of a holiday feast, or even as a filling for chicken. It’s rich, it’s delicious, and trust me, it’ll make your taste buds dance with joy! Let me guide you through making this creamy, dreamy side dish that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
What’s in Creamed Spinach?
Fresh Spinach: The star of the show! Fresh spinach gives the dish a lively green color and a fresh taste. I always opt for organic if I can—it’s just a bit tastier and better for the environment!
Butter: Because butter makes everything better, right? It adds richness and depth to the creamed sauce. I typically use unsalted butter for more control over the seasoning.
Shallots: These little gems add a mild yet sweet onion flavor. They bring a nice aromatic touch to the dish without overpowering the spinach.
Garlic: I’m a garlic lover, so I tend to add a little extra. It brings such a delightful savoriness to the creamed mixture.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! Heavy cream creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes creamed spinach so indulgent.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the whole dish. I always say, the more cheese, the better!
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings, but essential for bringing all the flavors together. I like using freshly cracked black pepper for a little kick!
Is Creamed Spinach Good for You?
While Creamed Spinach is undeniably delicious, it’s important to acknowledge it does come with a few health considerations.
Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and a good source of iron and calcium, spinach is a nutritional powerhouse. Eating a serving of spinach can do wonders for your health.
Heavy Cream: However, it can be a bit heavy on the calories and fat. If you’re looking to lighten it up a little, you can substitute half-and-half or a low-fat milk, but keep in mind the texture may not be as rich and creamy.
In moderation, though, it’s a delightful treat that can fit into a well-balanced diet, especially when paired with lean proteins and whole grains.
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh spinach (washed and chopped)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium shallot (finely chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Serves:** 4-6
How to Make Creamed Spinach?
1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter while letting it foam a bit (don’t brown it!).
2. Add the chopped shallot to the pan, sautéing until they become translucent—this takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Seriously, it’s going to smell divine!
4. Toss in the spinach, stirring often until it wilts down. This should take a few minutes.
5. Once the spinach is wilted, pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
6. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions & Tweaks
Let’s talk about how to make this dish even better. You can always spice it up by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.
Creamed spinach is a fabulous side dish for steak, chicken, or a holiday ham. But, you can also serve it over baked potatoes for a hearty vegetarian option.
Now, don’t hold back! I genuinely hope you try your hand at this delicious Creamed Spinach recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait for you to taste it. Enjoy cooking, and let me know how it turns out!