We all know spinach is good for you, but we underuse it. Enjoy the powerhouse of nutrients that is spinach with this range of meal ideas. But make sure to begin with the best quality spinach possible, whether baby spinach or regular. The best spinach may be found in the farmer's market rather than the produce section of a regular grocery store, and should be bought dark green, fresh and crisp.
Instructions
1. Add spinach to an omelet, scrambled eggs or tofu dish in the morning. This mix can also be great in a heated tortilla.
2. To jazz up a spinach salad, gently tear raw spinach into a bowl and add sliced mushrooms and slivered red onion. Try a hot and delicious salad dressing by sauteing minced garlic in 3 tbsps. olive oil on medium low heat (bacon lovers could also start with chopped bacon, which makes its own oil). Then add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to the pan--about 2 tbsps. Just drizzle this sizzling dressing on the salad before tossing.
3. Stir chopped, rinsed spinach into stir fries or soups. Blend or mix into homemade or store-bought pasta sauces. Spinach is great mixed into spaghetti, fettucini or short pasta dishes.
4. Try a great side dish by sauteing rinsed spinach leaves in sesame oil. Begin by sauteing chopped garlic and ginger. Add the spinach leaves and stir, then cover for 1 to 2 minutes. Toss with soy sauce or fish sauce and serve with a meat dish, if using, as well as rice or potatoes.
5. Experiment with another side dish. Saute spinach with 1 tbsp. cream cheese for a creamier, richer side. Sprinkle ground pepper to finish.
Tags: rinsed spinach, side dish, spinach into, spinach leaves, spinach with