Creamed spinach is a decadent side dish that transforms humble spinach into a rich, creamy, and flavorful accompaniment. This classic dish, often found on steakhouse menus and holiday tables, combines tender spinach with a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s a perfect way to elevate any meal and add a touch of elegance to your dining experience.
The Charm of Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a favorite because it balances the earthiness of spinach with the richness of cream and cheese. This dish can be a luxurious side for various mains, including steak, roast chicken, or even a vegetarian entrée. It’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while indulging in a creamy, satisfying treat.
Ingredients
1 pound fresh spinach (or 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Instructions
1. Prepare the Spinach:
Fresh Spinach: If using fresh spinach, rinse it thoroughly and remove any tough stems. In a large pot or skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the spinach in batches, cooking until wilted. Transfer the cooked spinach to a colander and press out as much moisture as possible. Chop the spinach coarsely and set aside.
Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thoroughly thawed and squeezed to remove excess moisture. Roughly chop if necessary.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.
Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring the mixture remains smooth. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken and coats the back of a spoon.
Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. For a bit of heat, you can also add red pepper flakes if desired.
3. Combine and Serve:
Add Spinach: Fold the prepared spinach into the creamy sauce, ensuring it is well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is heated through and evenly combined with the sauce.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the creamed spinach and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or nutmeg.
Serve:
Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes.
Tips:
For extra richness, you can substitute some of the milk with additional heavy cream.
To make ahead, prepare the creamed spinach up to a day in advance and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Fresh spinach provides a better texture, but frozen spinach is a convenient alternative if fresh is unavailable.
Creamed spinach is a versatile and luxurious side dish that adds a touch of sophistication to any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner. Enjoy this classic dish as a delicious and indulgent addition to your culinary repertoire.
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