Creamed spinach is a timeless side dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Its velvety texture and delicate flavor make it a favorite among both adults and children. If you’re looking to add a creative twist to this classic dish while keeping it simple and easy to prepare, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a delightful recipe for creamed spinach that will impress your taste buds and elevate your dining experience. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this creamy and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh spinach leaves
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Start by thoroughly washing the fresh spinach leaves to remove any grit or dirt. Once cleaned, drain the spinach and set it aside.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, sautéing them until fragrant and translucent.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the buttery mixture, stirring continuously for about a minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the creamed spinach.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth consistency. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Add the heavy cream to the pan, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to further thicken and develop a rich and creamy texture.
- Now it’s time to introduce the star ingredient – the spinach! Add the spinach leaves to the pan, stirring gently until they wilt and reduce in volume. This should take approximately 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the nutmeg, along with salt and pepper to taste. The nutmeg adds a warm and aromatic flavor that complements the spinach beautifully.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the creamed spinach simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the creamed spinach, stirring until it melts and creates a luxurious and cheesy sauce.
- Remove the creamed spinach from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for an added touch of elegance.
- Serve the creamed spinach alongside your favorite main courses, such as grilled chicken, seared steak, or roasted salmon. It also pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Creamed spinach is a versatile and sophisticated side dish that adds a touch of elegance to any meal. With this creative and easy-to-follow recipe, you can take your creamed spinach to new heights while keeping the preparation simple and enjoyable. The combination of fresh spinach, creamy sauce, and delicate seasonings creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more. So, go ahead and give this delightful creamed spinach recipe a try, and let it become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the creamy goodness and savor the culinary delight of this classic side dish with a creative twist.
