Imagine a side dish so simple yet so transformative that it can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Our Sautéed Spinach with Toasted Pine Nuts is not just a recipe—it's a culinary experience that combines the earthy richness of fresh spinach with the luxurious crunch of perfectly toasted pine nuts. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy side dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, proving that gourmet cooking doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the spinach thoroughly and patting dry with paper towels. Mince the garlic cloves finely and measure out the pine nuts.
- Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add olive oil and allow it to warm for about 30 seconds until it shimmers slightly.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté quickly for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pan in batches, allowing each batch to wilt down before adding more. Gently toss the spinach with the garlic and oil using tongs or a wooden spoon.
- Continue cooking the spinach for 2-3 minutes until it is completely wilted and has reduced in volume, but still maintains a vibrant green color.
- Season the spinach with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, stirring to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Remove the spinach from heat and transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top of the spinach just before serving.
- Serve immediately while the spinach is warm and the pine nuts are crisp, as a side dish or light accompaniment to your main course.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always thoroughly dry your spinach after washing to ensure it sautés beautifully without becoming soggy.
- Watch Your Garlic: Sauté garlic quickly and carefully—30-45 seconds is the sweet spot to release flavor without burning.
- Add Spinach in Batches: This helps maintain proper heat and ensures even wilting. Don't overcrowd the pan!
- Toasting Pine Nuts: If not pre-toasted, quickly toast pine nuts in a dry skillet before adding to the dish for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Season Carefully: Add salt and pepper at the end to prevent the spinach from releasing excess water during cooking.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking when the spinach is vibrant and the pine nuts are crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
