Italian Spinach in Butter Recipe
Overview
This delightful Italian Spinach in Butter recipe is a quick and simple way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach, elevating a humble green into a luxurious side dish that is both easy to prepare and budget-friendly. Ideal for spring and summer, this dish embodies the essence of European cuisine, making it a perfect complement to any meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (6 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 102.6 |
| Total Fat | 8.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 20.3 mg |
| Sodium | 120.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Sugars | 0.6 g |
| Protein | 4.4 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh spinach | 2 lbs |
| Sweet butter | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | to taste |
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Spinach: Begin by washing the fresh spinach thoroughly in several changes of cold water. This step is essential to remove any dirt or grit that may cling to the leaves, ensuring that your dish remains clean and flavorful.
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Select the Right Pot: It is crucial not to use an aluminum pot for this recipe, as it can impart a bitter taste to the spinach. Instead, opt for a heavy-bottomed enamel pot, which helps in distributing heat evenly while cooking.
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Cooking the Spinach: Place the cleaned spinach into the chosen enamel pot, adding 1 tablespoon of sweet butter and a tiny pinch of salt to enhance the natural flavors of the spinach. Cover the pot with a lid and set it over high heat.
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Wilt the Spinach: Cook the spinach, occasionally turning it over with tongs to ensure even cooking. The spinach is ready when it has wilted completely, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
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Drain Excess Moisture: Once wilted, remove the spinach from the pot and drain it well. To remove any excess moisture, transfer the spinach into a clean linen towel and squeeze gently, ensuring that all excess water is eliminated.
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Chop the Spinach: After draining, chop the spinach coarsely. This will help it absorb the butter more effectively in the next step.
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Final Sauté: In a heavy skillet, melt the remaining sweet butter over low heat. Once melted, add the chopped spinach to the skillet and gently toss it to coat it thoroughly with the buttery goodness.
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Seasoning: Season the spinach lightly with additional salt if desired. The key here is to enhance the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the spinach.
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Serving: Once the spinach is well-coated and warmed through, transfer it to a serving dish. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while warm, allowing you to savor the rich, buttery flavor along with the fresh taste of the spinach.
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Always use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any wilted or yellow leaves.
- Butter Choice: Opt for high-quality sweet butter to enhance the richness of the dish. The better the butter, the better the overall flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This Italian Spinach in Butter pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or can be served as part of a vegetarian meal alongside grains or other vegetables.
This Italian Spinach in Butter recipe from lovewithrecipes.com not only makes for an easy-to-prepare side dish but also showcases the beauty of fresh greens in a way that is both elegant and accessible. Perfect for any occasion, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser at your table. Enjoy!
