“This creamed spinach will become your go-to side dish.”
I will never forget the first time I made this creamed spinach with fried shallots. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter mixed with the bright green of fresh spinach brought me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. Creamy, decadent, and full of flavor, this dish is not only quick to prepare but is also a delightful addition to any meal. If you think spinach is boring, this recipe will change your mind!
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Why Is Creamed Spinach a Must-Try Recipe?
Absolutely, creamed spinach is a simple yet delightful comfort food! This dish is worth trying, especially when you’re looking for a quick, nourishing side.
Creamed spinach is not only an iconic side dish but also a nutritious option packed with vitamins A and C. Spinach is known for its health benefits, including strong bones and improved eye health. Paired with creamy goodness and topped with crispy shallots, this dish becomes an irresistible choice for dinner parties or weeknight meals. Plus, it’s a great way to get your family excited about greens! As you savor the rich textures and flavors, consider how easy it is to whip up creamy gnocchi with spinach and feta as another comforting dish to serve alongside this classic.
What Makes This Creamed Spinach Special?
This version of creamed spinach stands out with its blend of fresh ingredients and crispy fried shallots on top!
Fresh Spinach is Key
Using fresh spinach ensures that your dish has a vibrant color and flavor that frozen options just can’t match.
Crispy Fried Shallots Add Texture
The unique touch of fried shallots gives this dish a delightful crunch, making it more enjoyable than standard creamed spinach.
Easy to Prepare
With just a few steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality side dish ready in no time.
This recipe is an absolute game changer, incorporating fresh spinach and the unique crunch of fried shallots for an elevated experience. The combination of creamy, rich flavors with nuttiness from the shallots delivers a taste sensation you won’t forget. If you want to explore more about the nutritional benefits of spinach, check out this fantastic resource on spinach. For those evenings when you want something satisfying yet quick to make, consider trying creamy spinach mushroom lasagna as a delightful option.
What Ingredients Do You Need for Creamed Spinach?
This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients, making it easy for anyone to recreate!
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Spinach | 1 pound |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2-3 cloves |
| Shallots, thinly sliced | 2 large |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Nutmeg | pinch |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
While fresh spinach is the star of the show, the heavy cream is critical to achieving that luscious, thick consistency. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a low-fat alternative, although this may adjust the creamy texture slightly. Shallots pack a gentle sweetness that balances the rich cream and is a great alternative to using standard onions, which can overpower the dish. Overall, combining these ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that makes this dish stand out!
How Do You Make Creamed Spinach Step-by-Step?
It’s simple to make creamed spinach with just a few steps to follow!
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 2: Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach to the pot and cook until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to mix with the garlic.
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Nutritional Values | Approx. 300 calories per serving |
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base and Add Final Touches
Add the heavy cream, season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Cook until the cream thickens slightly while continuously stirring, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Fry the Shallots
In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil and fry the sliced shallots until golden brown. This should only take a few minutes. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Once the cream in the spinach is delightful and smooth, transfer it to a serving dish. Top generously with the crispy fried shallots and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese to complete the dish. Serve warm and enjoy!
If you follow these steps, you’ll enjoy a fabulous dish filled with flavors and textures. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle a few herbs like thyme or parsley atop for added freshness!
Are There Variations to Creamed Spinach You Can Try?
Absolutely! You can easily customize this dish to bring new flavors to the table.
Diet Swap
To make this recipe vegan-friendly, you can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a robust plant-based cream option available at your local store.
Flavor Variation
For extra flavor, consider adding freshly grated lemon zest or parmesan cheese to give it a tangy accent. You could also mix in other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for added depth. Check out this creamy mushroom lasagna that also brings fantastic flavor profiles to your meal.
Serving Idea
This creamed spinach pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted fish as a side. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a well-rounded dinner!
| Suggested Pairings | Tips |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken | Perfect for outdoor dinners, especially in warmer weather. |
| Roasted Fish | Balance the creaminess with the lightness of seafood. |
| Vegetarian Dishes | This pairs well with vegetarian options like stuffed peppers or a grain bowl. |
With these variations, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy creamed spinach with your favorite meals.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this creamed spinach with fried shallots is a versatile dish that adds a spritz of elegance to any meal. I love how quickly I can whip it up, and it always impresses my guests!
Don’t shy away from making this a regular on your dinner table. It’s perfect for family gatherings or even a comforting weeknight treat. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your friends on social media! Pin this recipe for later!
FAQ
Can you use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Using frozen spinach is an option, but it can change the texture slightly. If you choose this route, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the dish. Fresh spinach gives better flavor and texture, which is why it’s recommended.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This creamed spinach with fried shallots is naturally gluten-free, given that none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just be cautious of any processed or store-bought items to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
How long will the leftovers last?
Leftover creamed spinach can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the creamy spinach in advance, but fry the shallots right before serving for maximum crunch. Then combine before serving!
What variations can I try to this recipe?
You can try adding other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or corn for added flavor and nutrition. Also, consider different toppings like crispy garlic or herbs to change it up. Coconut cream is a great substitute if you are looking for a vegan version.
Creamed Spinach with Fried Shallots
A creamy, rich side dish that elevates any meal in just 10 minutes, packed with nutrients and topped with crispy shallots.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound Fresh Spinach
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 2–3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 large Shallots, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Pinch of Nutmeg
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pot and cook until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to mix with the garlic.
- Add the heavy cream, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Cook until the cream thickens slightly while continuously stirring, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil and fry the sliced shallots until golden brown. This should only take a few minutes. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Once the cream in the spinach is delightful and smooth, transfer it to a serving dish. Top generously with the crispy fried shallots and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a low-fat alternative for the heavy cream. You can also make this recipe vegan-friendly by using coconut cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, High Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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