Balsamic Egg Plant and Spinach Saute
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant and flavorful Balsamic Eggplant and Spinach Sauté! This quick and easy recipe combines tender, golden-brown cubes of eggplant with nutrient-packed fresh spinach, all tossed in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze infused with garlic. With a hint of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan twist), this dish offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet while remaining naturally gluten-free. Red pepper flakes provide an optional kick for spice lovers, and the whole meal comes together in just 25 minutes. Serve it as a wholesome side or a light vegetarian main alongside warm quinoa, fluffy rice, or crusty artisan bread for a truly satisfying and healthy dish.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 medium Eggplant
- 6 cups Fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 3 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Wash and slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch cubes. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and allow to sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Mince the garlic cloves and sauté them in the skillet for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Add the cubed eggplant to the skillet, stirring occasionally, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until softened and lightly browned.
While the eggplant cooks, in a small bowl, mix the balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup). Set aside.
Once the eggplant is tender, add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, letting it wilt before adding more. This should take 2-3 minutes.
Pour the balsamic mixture over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat evenly.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Remove from heat and serve warm. This dish pairs well with quinoa, rice, or crusty bread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
127 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 7.0 g | 9% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.0 g | 5% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 455 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14.6 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.5 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.4 g | ||
| Protein | 2.9 g | 6% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 65 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 2.1 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 366 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
