Elevate your side dish game with this quick and flavorful recipe for Italian Spinach! Bursting with fresh, vibrant spinach sautéed in aromatic garlic and extra virgin olive oil, this dish is perfectly seasoned with a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. A finishing touch of grated Parmesan cheese melts into the greens, adding a rich, nutty flavor, while a drizzle of fresh lemon juice brightens every bite. Ready in just 15 minutes, this healthy and versatile dish pairs beautifully with classic Italian entrées or grilled proteins. Low-carb, vegetarian, and packed with nutrients, Italian Spinach is an effortless way to bring authentic Mediterranean flavors to your table.
Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold running water and trim any tough stems. Drain the spinach well and set it aside.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir them into the garlic oil.
Gradually add the fresh spinach to the skillet, one handful at a time, stirring constantly. Let each batch wilt slightly before adding the next.
Once all the spinach has wilted (approximately 3-4 minutes), season with salt and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the spinach and allow it to melt slightly, tossing gently to combine.
Drizzle the lemon juice over the cooked spinach and give it a final stir.
Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the spinach to a serving dish. Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite Italian main course.
Calories |
490 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 37.3 g | 48% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.1 g | 50% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 30 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 2037 mg | 89% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20.8 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.7 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.4 g | ||
| Protein | 23.6 g | 47% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 777 mg | 60% | |
| Iron | 14.8 mg | 82% | |
| Potassium | 77 mg | 2% | |
*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.