Sesame Spinach Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Asian Side Dish
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 60.3 kcal
Overview and Inspiration
Sesame Spinach is a delightful side dish that perfectly complements any Asian-inspired meal. With its vibrant green color and a blend of savory flavors, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking to add more greens to your diet or need a quick, nutritious addition to your meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s vegan and low in cholesterol, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch spinach (about 1 pound)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 60.3 kcal
- Total Fat: 3.8 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 755.2 mg
- Carbohydrates: 4.8 g
- Fiber: 2.8 g
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Protein: 3.8 g
Instructions
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Prepare the Spinach:
- Start by rinsing the spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Trim off any tough stems.
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Steam the Spinach:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Place half of the spinach into a steamer basket and steam for about 1 minute, until wilted but still vibrant green.
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Chill and Repeat:
- Immediately transfer the steamed spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve its bright color. Repeat with the remaining spinach.
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Drain and Squeeze Dry:
- Drain the blanched spinach and gently squeeze out any excess water. It’s important to remove excess moisture to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
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Season and Toss:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched spinach with sesame oil, soy sauce, and salt. Toss gently to coat the spinach evenly with the flavorful dressing.
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Serve:
- Transfer the sesame spinach to a serving dish. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for a nutty crunch and extra flavor.
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Enjoy:
- Serve immediately as a side dish alongside your favorite Asian main course. Alternatively, you can enjoy sesame spinach over a bed of steamed rice for a more substantial meal.
Tips for Success
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Freshness Matters: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. Baby spinach works well too and requires minimal preparation.
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Squeezing Technique: When squeezing out excess water from the spinach, do it gently to avoid breaking the leaves apart.
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Customize to Taste: Adjust the amount of soy sauce and salt according to your preference for saltiness. You can also add a dash of rice vinegar or a pinch of sugar for a slightly tangy or sweeter note.
Nutritional Highlights
Sesame spinach is not only low in calories but also packed with essential nutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. The addition of sesame seeds provides healthy fats, protein, and a deliciously nutty flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This sesame spinach recipe is a testament to simplicity and flavor harmony. Whether you’re a busy cook looking for a quick side dish or simply craving a nutritious addition to your meal, this dish offers both convenience and satisfaction. Its versatility allows it to pair well with a variety of Asian dishes or stand alone as a light lunch option. Enjoy the vibrant colors and delicious taste of sesame spinach in just under 10 minutes of preparation time, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
