When you're looking for a healthy food that tastes great, it's hard to find a better option than spinach. This green leaf vegetable is a dietary powerhouse that's full of vitamins and minerals, including significant amounts of vitamins A, C, K, and folate, as well as the minerals manganese and magnesium. It is also extremely high in antioxidants called carotenoids. The health benefits are particularly impressive when you consider that raw spinach contains only seven calories per cup. Fresh, raw spinach is great in salads and on sandwich toppings, but the tasty veggie can also be used in a variety of recipes.
Sautéed Fresh Spinach Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound of fresh baby spinach leaves
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the olive oil and garlic.
- Sauté garlic for two minutes.
- Add the spinach and nutmeg, stirring lightly.
- Cover and allow to cook for 10 minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve.
Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 10-ounce package of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 14-ounce can of artichoke hearts, drained
- 1 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened (do not use fat free)
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 clove of minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spray a small casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place all ingredients except for the spinach, the artichoke hearts and the mozzarella cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Stir until well combined.
- Add spinach and artichoke hearts, gently folding into the mixture.
- Place the mixture in the baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
Creamed Spinach Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 10-ounce packages of frozen spinach, drained
- 1 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened (do not use fat free)
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1/2 of a cup of bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup of shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spray a small casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Melt the butter.
- Place butter, drained spinach, and softened cream cheese into a mixing bowl.
- Mix well to combine.
- Transfer mixture to casserole dish.
- Place bread crumbs and shredded cheese into a mixing bowl.
- Toss to combine.
- Sprinkle over to of spinach mixture.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
More Ways to Enjoy Spinach
There are, of course, many of other great-tasting ways to enjoy spinach beyond the three options presented here. For example, turnips and spinach is a low calorie, low carb option that is popular with dieters. If you like the idea of making your own pasta, spinach ravioli is a tasty option. You may event want to try a spinach and egg sandwich recipe. For a simple salad, just top fresh spinach leaves with dried cranberries, crumbled bacon, and your favorite salad dressing. There are virtually unlimited possibilities when it comes to creative and delicious ways to prepare spinach.
