Rich and Creamy Spinach Delight
Elevate your meal with this Rich and Creamy Spinach Delight, a quick and easy recipe that transforms ordinary frozen spinach into a luxurious side dish. With creamy textures from cream cheese and a delightful finish of Parmesan, this dish packs flavor and nutrition into every serving. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or as an accompaniment to pasta, it’s a versatile and delicious way to enjoy your greens. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's ideal for busy weeknights or surprise guests!
4
Servings
87.5
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen Chopped Spinach
10 ounces (thawed)
Cream Cheese
4 ounces (softened)
Garlic
to taste (fresh or powder)
Parmesan Cheese
to taste (grated)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly thawing the frozen chopped spinach. Once thawed, drain any excess water to ensure a richer texture in the dish.
2
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the drained spinach with softened cream cheese. Mix well to incorporate the cream cheese into the spinach.
3
Add garlic to your liking—whether it's freshly minced or garlic powder—and stir until the garlic is well distributed and fragrant.
4
Continue cooking while stirring, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy and heated through.
5
Remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of the spinach mixture.
6
Cover the saucepan to allow the residual heat to melt the Parmesan, creating a deliciously creamy finish.
7
Serve immediately, enjoying this delightful dish as a flavorful side.
Nutrition Information
6.25g
Fat
2.5g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rich and Creamy Spinach Delight?
It is a quick and easy recipe that transforms ordinary frozen spinach into a luxurious side dish using cream cheese and Parmesan.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How long does it take to prepare?
The dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Is this spinach dish vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly side dish.
What are the main ingredients?
The ingredients include 10 ounces of frozen chopped spinach, 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach, but you will need to cook it down and drain it thoroughly before adding the cream cheese.
How do I prepare the frozen spinach for this recipe?
Thoroughly thaw the frozen spinach and drain any excess water to ensure a rich texture.
Why is it important to drain the spinach?
Draining the spinach prevents the final dish from being too watery and helps maintain a creamy consistency.
What type of cream cheese should be used?
Standard brick cream cheese works best, and it should be softened to help it incorporate easily into the spinach.
Does the cream cheese need to be softened?
Yes, softening the cream cheese allows it to melt and mix with the spinach more smoothly during cooking.
What kind of garlic is recommended?
You can use either freshly minced garlic or garlic powder depending on your flavor preference.
How much garlic should I add?
Garlic should be added to your liking or personal taste.
When do I add the Parmesan cheese?
Sprinkle the Parmesan over the top after removing the mixture from the heat, then cover to let the residual heat melt it.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 87.5 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 6.25g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
Each serving has 2.5g of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 5g of protein per serving.
What can I serve with Rich and Creamy Spinach Delight?
It is perfect for pairing with grilled meats or as an accompaniment to various pasta dishes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it gently on the stove when ready to serve.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this dish be reheated?
Yes, it can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on your cheese and spices to be sure.
Can I add other types of cheese?
Yes, adding mozzarella or Gruyere can provide extra flavor and a different cheesy texture.
How can I make this dish spicy?
Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the spinach mixture while cooking.
What if I don't have a saucepan?
A skillet or any heavy-bottomed pan will work perfectly for heating the spinach and cream cheese.
Can I prepare this in the microwave?
Yes, you can combine the ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until creamy.
Is this dish healthy?
It is a nutrient-rich side dish that provides fiber and protein, making it a delicious way to eat your greens.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredient amounts to serve a larger group.
What is the texture of the dish?
The texture is luxurious, thick, and creamy with a savory melted cheese finish.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, with low carbohydrates and a good amount of fat and protein, it fits well within a ketogenic lifestyle.