Spinach with Cream and Parmigiano-Reggiano
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
This creamy spinach dish takes a slightly different twist with the addition of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, creating a rich, comforting side that even the pickiest eaters (especially kids) will enjoy. It’s simple, quick, and elevates the flavors of fresh spinach, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re looking to get more greens into your diet or just need a tasty, indulgent veggie side, this recipe will hit the spot.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh spinach | 2 large bunches |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Heavy cream | 1/3 cup |
| Nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fine sea salt | To taste |
| Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese | 1/4 – 1/2 cup, grated |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 156.7 kcal |
| Fat | 13.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 42.4 mg |
| Sodium | 171.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.4 g |
| Fiber | 3.5 g |
| Sugar | 0.8 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
Instructions
- Cook the Spinach: Begin by placing the fresh spinach in a large pot, ensuring there’s enough water clinging to the leaves. Cover and cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
- Drain and Dry: Once the spinach has wilted, drain it well and squeeze out any excess moisture.
- Prepare the Creamy Base: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the spinach, heavy cream, nutmeg, and sea salt. Stir the ingredients together until well combined and heated through.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese over the spinach mixture, and stir gently. For a more intense cheesy flavor, feel free to use the full amount of cheese. If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of cheese to suit your taste.
- Melt and Serve: Turn off the heat, cover the skillet, and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve Immediately: Once the cheese is melted and everything is nicely combined, serve the creamy spinach right away while it’s still warm.
Tips for Success
- Texture: To adjust the consistency, you can add a little more cream if you prefer a saucier dish or reduce the cream for a thicker result.
- Cheese Variations: While Parmigiano-Reggiano adds a wonderful depth of flavor, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a slightly different taste.
- Make Ahead: This dish is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat it gently over low heat.
This simple yet indulgent spinach recipe is the ultimate way to sneak in some greens while satisfying everyone’s taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special family dinner!
