Elevate Your Meal: Three Irresistible Creamed Spinach Recipes

Creamed spinach is a classic dish, often relegated to the side dish category. However, its versatility and rich flavor profile make it so much more. It’s a fantastic accompaniment to grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even as a filling for pasta. This article explores three distinct creamed spinach recipes, each with a unique twist to elevate your dining experience. From a classic rendition to a lighter, more modern approach, and finally, a decadent, cheesy indulgence, we’ll cover it all. Get ready to transform this humble vegetable into a culinary masterpiece!

## Why Creamed Spinach is a Must-Try

Before diving into the recipes, let’s appreciate why creamed spinach deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:

* **Nutrient-Packed:** Spinach is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants. Creamed spinach provides these benefits in a palatable and delicious way.
* **Versatile:** As mentioned earlier, creamed spinach pairs well with various proteins and can even be incorporated into other dishes.
* **Relatively Easy to Make:** The basic process is straightforward, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced cooks.
* **Comfort Food:** Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it incredibly comforting and satisfying.
* **Elevated Side Dish:** It instantly elevates any meal from ordinary to special, adding a touch of elegance.

## Recipe 1: The Classic Creamed Spinach

This recipe serves as the foundation for all other variations. It’s a timeless classic that highlights the natural flavor of spinach with a creamy, rich sauce.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs fresh spinach, thoroughly washed
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 cup milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Spinach:** This is a crucial step. Properly washed spinach is essential. Fill a large bowl or sink with cold water. Submerge the spinach and swish it around to loosen any dirt. Lift the spinach out of the water, leaving the dirt behind. Repeat this process until no dirt remains at the bottom of the bowl. Once cleaned, coarsely chop the spinach.
2. **Wilt the Spinach:** There are a few ways to do this. The quickest is to steam it. Place the chopped spinach in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) and cover the pot. The spinach will wilt down quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can wilt the spinach in batches in a skillet with a little bit of oil. Ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the spinach instead of wilting it properly. Once wilted, transfer the spinach to a colander and press out as much excess water as possible. This step is vital to prevent watery creamed spinach. You can use your hands, a spatula, or even a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out the moisture. Set aside.
3. **Make the Roux:** In the same pot or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. **Create the Sauce:** Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which is the base for the creamy sauce. Cooking the flour eliminates the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
5. **Combine and Season:** Add the wilted spinach to the sauce and stir to combine. Season with nutmeg, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The sauce should coat the spinach evenly.
6. **Serve:** Serve the creamed spinach immediately. It pairs beautifully with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or fish. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

**Tips for the Perfect Classic Creamed Spinach:**

* **Don’t skip the squeezing:** Removing excess water from the spinach is crucial for a thick, creamy texture.
* **Use fresh nutmeg:** Freshly grated nutmeg has a much more intense and aromatic flavor than pre-ground nutmeg.
* **Taste and adjust:** Seasoning is key! Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or nutmeg to taste.
* **Low and slow:** Simmering the sauce gently allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

## Recipe 2: Light and Modern Creamed Spinach with Greek Yogurt

This version offers a lighter, healthier alternative to the classic recipe. By using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, you reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor or creaminess. This is a perfect option for those looking for a guilt-free indulgence.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs fresh spinach, thoroughly washed
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 shallot, finely chopped (shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor than onions)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
* 1 cup vegetable broth
* 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Spinach:** Wash and chop the spinach as described in the classic recipe. Ensure you remove as much excess water as possible after wilting.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Create the Sauce:** Sprinkle the flour over the shallot and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. **Incorporate the Greek Yogurt:** Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly for a minute or two. This is important because adding Greek yogurt directly to a hot sauce can cause it to curdle. Stir in the Greek yogurt until smooth and well combined. The sauce should be creamy and slightly tangy.
5. **Combine and Season:** Add the wilted spinach to the sauce and stir to combine. Stir in the lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Return the skillet to low heat and simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. **Serve:** Serve the light and modern creamed spinach immediately. It’s a delicious side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also works well as a topping for baked potatoes or as a filling for omelets. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for added freshness.

**Tips for the Light and Modern Creamed Spinach:**

* **Don’t overheat the Greek yogurt:** As mentioned earlier, overheating Greek yogurt can cause it to curdle. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before adding the yogurt.
* **Use fresh lemon juice:** Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the Greek yogurt.
* **Experiment with herbs:** Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives add a fresh and flavorful dimension to this dish.
* **Consider adding vegetables:** Sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.

## Recipe 3: Decadent Creamed Spinach with Gruyere and Parmesan

This recipe is for those who want to indulge in a truly decadent and cheesy creamed spinach experience. The combination of Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses adds a rich, nutty, and savory flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. This is the perfect side dish for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs fresh spinach, thoroughly washed
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 1 shallot, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 cup whole milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Spinach:** Wash and chop the spinach as described in the classic recipe. Ensure you remove as much excess water as possible after wilting.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Create the Sauce:** Sprinkle the flour over the shallot and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
4. **Incorporate the Cheeses:** Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses until they are melted and smooth. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and cheesy.
5. **Combine and Season:** Add the wilted spinach to the sauce and stir to combine. Season with nutmeg, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. **Bake (Optional):** For an extra touch of indulgence, you can transfer the creamed spinach to a baking dish and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbly. This step is optional but adds a delightful crust to the dish.
7. **Serve:** Serve the decadent creamed spinach immediately. It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled steak, roasted lamb, or prime rib. It also makes a luxurious side dish for holiday dinners. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a sprig of fresh thyme for added elegance.

**Tips for the Decadent Creamed Spinach:**

* **Use high-quality cheeses:** Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses have distinct flavor profiles that contribute significantly to the overall taste of this dish. Use the best quality cheeses you can afford.
* **Don’t overcook the cheese:** Overcooking the cheese can make it stringy. Stir it in gently over low heat until it is just melted and smooth.
* **Experiment with other cheeses:** If you don’t have Gruyere or Parmesan on hand, you can substitute other cheeses such as Swiss, Fontina, or Asiago.
* **Add a breadcrumb topping:** For extra texture and flavor, you can sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese over the creamed spinach before baking.

## Creamed Spinach Variations and Adaptations

The beauty of creamed spinach lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version. Here are some ideas:

* **Add Bacon or Pancetta:** Crispy bacon or pancetta adds a smoky and savory flavor to creamed spinach.
* **Incorporate Mushrooms:** Sautéed mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, add an earthy and umami flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Use Different Greens:** Substitute some of the spinach with other greens, such as kale or chard.
* **Make it Vegan:** Use plant-based butter, milk, and cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan version.
* **Add Artichoke Hearts:** Quartered artichoke hearts add a slightly tangy and briny flavor.
* **Top with a Fried Egg:** For a complete and satisfying meal, top creamed spinach with a fried egg.

## Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Creamed spinach is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

* **As a Side Dish:** The most common way to serve creamed spinach is as a side dish alongside grilled or roasted meats, poultry, or fish.
* **As a Filling:** Use creamed spinach as a filling for omelets, quiches, or stuffed pasta shells.
* **As a Topping:** Top baked potatoes, pizzas, or crostini with creamed spinach.
* **In Dips:** Blend creamed spinach with cream cheese or sour cream to create a delicious and creamy dip.
* **With Pasta:** Toss creamed spinach with your favorite pasta for a quick and easy meal.

Here are some specific pairing suggestions:

* **Steak:** Creamed spinach is a classic pairing with steak, especially grilled ribeye or filet mignon.
* **Roasted Chicken:** The creamy texture of the spinach complements the crispy skin of roasted chicken.
* **Salmon:** Creamed spinach provides a rich and flavorful counterpoint to the delicate flavor of salmon.
* **Pork Chops:** Creamed spinach adds moisture and flavor to pork chops.
* **Lamb:** The earthy flavors of lamb pair well with the richness of creamed spinach.

## Tips for Making Creamed Spinach Ahead of Time

Creamed spinach can be made ahead of time, which is convenient for busy weeknights or special occasions. Here are some tips:

* **Prepare the spinach and sauce separately:** Wilt the spinach and make the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
* **Combine before serving:** When you’re ready to serve, combine the spinach and sauce in a skillet and heat through over low heat.
* **Add a little extra liquid:** If the creamed spinach seems too thick after being refrigerated, add a little extra milk or cream to thin it out.
* **Do not overcook:** Avoid overcooking the creamed spinach when reheating, as this can make it watery.

## Conclusion

Creamed spinach is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you prefer the classic rendition, a lighter and healthier version, or a decadent and cheesy indulgence, there’s a creamed spinach recipe to suit your taste. So, get in the kitchen and start experimenting! With these three recipes as your guide, you’re sure to create a creamed spinach masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Bon appétit!