Elevate your vegetable side dishes with this Mediterranean Diet Sauteed Spinach recipe—a vibrant and flavorful way to enjoy the benefits of fresh spinach. This quick and easy dish pairs tender wilted spinach with aromatic garlic, zesty lemon juice, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, all perfectly enhanced with extra virgin olive oil. Ready in just 15 minutes, this low-calorie, nutrient-packed recipe is ideal for anyone seeking a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired option that complements everything from grilled fish to grain bowls. Each bite bursts with bold, citrusy notes and silky textures, making it a delicious yet effortless addition to dinners for the whole family or solo lunches that don't skimp on taste.
Wash and thoroughly dry the spinach leaves to remove any excess moisture.
Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves.
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic to the heated oil and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to let it burn.
Add the spinach to the skillet in batches, allowing each batch to wilt slightly before adding the next. Stir the spinach continuously to ensure even cooking.
Once all the spinach is wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes, add the lemon juice, salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach is tender and flavorful.
Remove from heat and transfer the sautéed spinach to a serving dish.
Garnish with lemon zest to enhance the flavor before serving.
Calories |
379 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.8 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.0 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1582 mg | 69% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23.8 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.7 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.1 g | ||
| Protein | 15.9 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 524 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 13.7 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 2860 mg | 61% | |
*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.