Brighten up your table with this vibrant and flavorful Spinach with Olives and Lemon recipe—a quick and healthy side dish bursting with Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Tender wilted spinach is paired with the briny richness of Kalamata olives, a zing of fresh lemon zest and juice, and a hint of garlic for a dish that's both simple and sophisticated. Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings alike. Serve it warm alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or as a light vegetarian main with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. This dish combines wholesome ingredients with bold, refreshing flavors, making it a must-have for your Mediterranean recipe rotation!
Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring as you go to allow the spinach to wilt and make room for more.
Once all the spinach is wilted, stir in the Kalamata olives and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
Sprinkle the lemon zest over the spinach, followed by the lemon juice. Stir gently to incorporate.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Remove the skillet from heat and serve warm as a side dish or a light main course along with some crusty bread.
Calories |
615 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 55.6 g | 71% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.3 g | 42% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2392 mg | 104% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22.6 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.9 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.5 g | ||
| Protein | 9.2 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 380 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 133 mg | 3% | |
*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.