Quick & Creamy Spinach Delight
This Quick & Creamy Spinach Delight is a versatile, easy-to-make side dish that adds a touch of elegance to any meal without the fuss. Perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish comes together in just minutes using simple ingredients often found in your freezer and pantry. With the rich, creamy texture from cream cheese and the vibrant flavor of spinach, it can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite proteins. Ideal for anyone following the Somersize diet or simply seeking a deliciously quick vegetable option, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen spinach
12 ounces (none)
Cream cheese
4 ounces (softened)
Salt
to taste (none)
Black pepper
to taste (none)
Red pepper flakes
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by placing the frozen spinach into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate to retain moisture.
2
Microwave the spinach on high for approximately 8 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
3
Once the spinach is done, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and add the cream cheese to the hot spinach. Stir well to combine the ingredients until the cream cheese is fully melted and integrated, microwaving for an additional 2 minutes if necessary.
4
Season the creamed spinach with salt, pepper, and hot pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed, and serve warm as a delightful side dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quick & Creamy Spinach Delight?
It is a versatile, easy-to-make side dish that combines frozen spinach and cream cheese for a rich and elegant vegetable option.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients are 12 ounces of frozen spinach, 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
How long does it take to cook the spinach in the microwave?
The spinach should be microwaved on high for approximately 8 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Should the bowl be covered during cooking?
Yes, cover the microwave-safe bowl with a lid or plate to retain moisture while cooking the spinach.
When do I add the cream cheese?
Add the cream cheese to the hot spinach once the initial 8-minute microwave cycle is complete.
What if the cream cheese doesn't melt immediately?
If the cream cheese is not fully integrated after stirring, you can microwave the mixture for an additional 2 minutes.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The recipe is seasoned with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this recipe is tagged as low-carb and is suitable for many keto or low-carbohydrate eating plans.
Is Quick & Creamy Spinach Delight vegetarian?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Is this recipe compatible with the Somersize diet?
Yes, it is explicitly mentioned as ideal for anyone following the Somersize diet.
How much frozen spinach is needed?
You will need 12 ounces of frozen spinach.
How much cream cheese does the recipe require?
The recipe requires 4 ounces of softened cream cheese.
Can I use fresh spinach instead?
While the recipe specifies frozen spinach, you could use fresh spinach, though you would need a much larger volume and different cooking times.
Is this dish spicy?
It contains red pepper flakes, but the heat level can be controlled by adjusting the amount added to taste.
How should this dish be served?
It should be served warm as a side dish, either on its own or paired with protein.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 total ingredients: spinach, cream cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Is any special equipment needed?
Only a microwave-safe bowl and a microwave are required for this recipe.
Can I prepare this on a busy weeknight?
Yes, it is designed to be a quick side dish that comes together in just a few minutes.
Does the spinach need to be thawed before cooking?
No, the instructions indicate placing the frozen spinach directly into the bowl for microwaving.
Can I add other spices?
Yes, you can customize the flavor with additional spices like garlic powder or nutmeg if desired.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (spinach, cream cheese, and spices), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use light cream cheese?
Yes, though the texture may be slightly less rich than with full-fat cream cheese.
How do I ensure the cream cheese is fully integrated?
Stir well after adding the cream cheese to the hot spinach until it is melted and smooth.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size is not specified, but with 12oz of spinach and 4oz of cheese, it typically serves 2 to 4 people as a side.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook the spinach in a saucepan over medium heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted.
Can I add other cheeses?
Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or shredded mozzarella would be a delicious variation.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be made in advance and reheated easily in the microwave.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What proteins go well with this spinach?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted fish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients; just ensure you use a larger bowl and potentially increase the microwave time.