Savory Spinach (Spinaci Sfiziosi) Recipe
Category: Side Dish
Servings: 4
This delicious, creamy, and savory spinach recipe is an Italian-inspired side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any main course. Infused with aromatic sautéed spring onions, rich butter, and a smooth creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The texture is beautifully silky, and the nutmeg adds a touch of warmth, making it an excellent accompaniment to your meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Spinach | 500g |
| Spring Onion (scallions) | 45g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 30g |
| Fine Salt | 1 pinch |
| Butter | 30g |
| Flour | 30g |
| Milk | 300ml |
| Nutmeg | to taste |
| Salt | to taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Spinach:
Start by sautéing the spinach in a pan with 4 tablespoons of water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the spinach wilts completely. Once done, remove from heat and set aside. -
Make the Creamy Sauce:
While the spinach is cooking, in a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the sifted flour, stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps. Let the mixture cook gently until it turns a light golden color, ensuring the flour is well cooked. -
Add Milk and Seasoning:
Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk vigorously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-6 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. -
Flavor the Sauce:
Season with salt and a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary and set the sauce aside. -
Prepare the Spring Onion:
While the sauce is simmering, clean the spring onions by trimming the root end and discarding the tough outer layers. Discard the green parts and finely chop the bulb. -
Sauté the Spring Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped spring onions and sauté them until they soften and become fragrant. -
Combine the Spinach and Sauce:
Once the spring onions are ready, add the sautéed spinach to the pan with the onions. Pour in the creamy sauce and stir everything together until the spinach is fully coated. -
Final Seasoning:
Season the dish with additional salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. -
Serve:
Serve the savory spinach hot as a side dish. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as a topping for a warm, fluffy baked potato. Enjoy your flavorful and creamy spinach!
Tips:
- You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra richness.
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to increase the amount of nutmeg or even add a hint of garlic to the sautéed onions.
This easy-to-make dish will elevate any meal and is a perfect balance of creaminess and earthiness from the spinach, making it a must-try for your next dinner gathering.
