Description
Creamed spinach is a luscious side dish that envelops tender spinach leaves in a rich, creamy sauce, creating a delightful contrast of textures. The velvety smoothness of the sauce, infused with garlic and nutmeg, complements the earthy flavor of the spinach, making each bite a comforting experience.
Ingredients
- Spinach: 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Flour: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Milk: 1 cup whole milk
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
- Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup grated, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the spinach for 2 minutes until wilted. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Squeeze out excess moisture and chop coarsely.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Frozen spinach can be used in place of fresh; just ensure it is thoroughly drained before adding to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 400 milligrams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 6 grams
- Cholesterol: 40 milligrams
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