Brighten up your table with the vibrant flavors of Garlic Spinach Bell Peppers, a quick and healthy stir-fry that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. This 20-minute recipe combines tender, garlicky spinach with the subtle sweetness of sautéed red and yellow bell peppers, all brought together with a zesty kick of fresh lemon zest and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Perfect as a nutrient-packed side dish or a light vegetarian main course, this dish is cooked in olive oil for a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired flavor. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a go-to for busy weeknights or a colorful addition to any meal spread. Serve it warm alongside rice, quinoa, or your favorite protein for a satisfying experience bursting with freshness and antioxidants.
Wash the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly, then pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Slice the red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips, approximately 1/4-inch wide, and set aside.
Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Add the spinach leaves to the skillet in batches, allowing each batch to wilt slightly before adding the next. Stir gently to combine with the bell peppers and garlic.
Season the mixture with salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to evenly coat the vegetables in the seasonings.
Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is fully wilted and tender and the bell peppers are cooked to your liking but still slightly crisp.
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the lemon zest over the vegetables for a refreshing touch. Gently toss to distribute the zest evenly.
Transfer the Garlic Spinach Bell Peppers to a serving dish and serve warm. Enjoy as a side dish or a light, flavorful main course alongside rice or quinoa.
Calories |
417 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.5 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1352 mg | 59% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.3 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.0 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.9 g | ||
| Protein | 10.4 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 256 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 7.0 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1845 mg | 39% | |
*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.