Garlic-Infused Spinach with Toasted Pine Nuts
Indulge in this delicious and vibrant Garlic-Infused Spinach with Toasted Pine Nuts recipe, perfect for anyone who loves the robust flavor of garlic paired with the earthiness of spinach. This dish is not just healthy; it’s a culinary delight that makes an excellent side for grilled chicken or fish. The unexpected crunch of toasted pine nuts adds texture, while red pepper flakes provide just the right amount of heat to elevate the flavor profile. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, especially if you savor the rich, aromatic taste of garlic.
2
Servings
145
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Spinach
1 (12-ounce bag, fresh)
Olive Oil
1.5 (tablespoons)
Garlic Cloves
2-3 (minced)
Water
2 (teaspoons)
Salt
0.5 (teaspoon)
Black Pepper
0.5 (teaspoon, freshly ground)
Pine Nuts
1.5 (tablespoons, toasted)
Red Pepper Flakes
1 (teaspoon, optional)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2
Once the olive oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and water. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3
Gradually add the spinach to the skillet, allowing it to wilt. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Stir continuously until the spinach is fully wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes.
4
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the toasted pine nuts. Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the spinach mixture, adjusting to your taste preference. Cook for another minute, stirring gently to combine.
6
Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm, pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for a delightful meal.
Nutrition Information
11.5
Fat
5
Carbs
3
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is Garlic-Infused Spinach with Toasted Pine Nuts.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 2 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
There are 145 calories per serving.
Is this spinach recipe low-carb?
Yes, it contains only 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this dish is gluten-free.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients are fresh spinach, olive oil, garlic cloves, pine nuts, and red pepper flakes.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 11.5 grams of fat.
How much protein is in this dish?
There are 3 grams of protein per serving.
Can I make this dish vegan?
This dish is already vegan as it uses olive oil and plant-based ingredients.
What type of spinach should I use?
A 12-ounce bag of fresh spinach is recommended.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
The recipe suggests adding 2 teaspoons of water with the minced garlic to prevent browning.
How long does it take to wilt the spinach?
The spinach typically takes approximately 2-3 minutes to wilt fully.
What is the purpose of the pine nuts?
Toasted pine nuts add an unexpected crunch and earthy texture to the dish.
Are the red pepper flakes mandatory?
No, the red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your taste preference.
What can I serve with this spinach dish?
It makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken or fish.
How much garlic is needed?
You will need 2 to 3 minced garlic cloves.
Should the pine nuts be toasted beforehand?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1.5 tablespoons of toasted pine nuts.
What oil is best for this recipe?
Olive oil is used for its flavor and healthy fat profile.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
Add 0.5 teaspoon of salt and 0.5 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Do I need to cover the skillet at any point?
Yes, cover the skillet for one minute after adding the pine nuts to allow the flavors to meld.
What temperature should I use for sautéing?
Start by heating the oil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low after wilting the spinach.
Is this recipe quick to prepare?
Yes, it is described as a quick and easy side dish taking only a few minutes to cook.
Can I substitute the pine nuts with other nuts?
While pine nuts are traditional for this flavor profile, walnuts or slivered almonds could work as a substitute.
How many total ingredients are required?
There are 8 ingredients total including seasonings.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
The nutrition data provided indicates no cholesterol.
What categories does this recipe fall into?
It is tagged as a healthy, Mediterranean, low-carb, and vegetable dish.
How much water is added to the skillet?
Only 2 teaspoons of water are added with the garlic.
Is this a spicy dish?
It has a slight heat from the red pepper flakes, which you can adjust to your liking.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
The recipe specifies a 12-ounce bag of fresh spinach for the best texture.
What should I do if I want more garlic flavor?
The recipe allows for a range of 2 to 3 cloves; you can use the higher amount for a more robust flavor.