Spinach has never been this flavorful! This rich, buttery dish is infused with just the right balance of seasoning, bringing out the natural earthiness of the leafy greens. The combination of chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and smooth melted butter makes this spinach irresistibly delicious and perfect as a side for any meal. Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side or a dish to complement a hearty dinner, this seasoned buttered spinach will satisfy your cravings while keeping things simple and nutritious.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (16oz) frozen cut spinach leaves
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 ½ tbsp butter
- 1 ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Directions:
- In a large saucepan, add the frozen spinach and chicken broth.
- Place over medium heat and allow the spinach to cook down, stirring occasionally.
- Once the spinach is fully thawed and the broth begins to simmer, add the apple cider vinegar, butter, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Stir well to incorporate the seasonings and let the spinach cook for another 5 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 85 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why This Buttered Spinach Recipe Stands Out
There are plenty of ways to prepare spinach, but this recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
1. Quick and Easy to Make
One of the biggest advantages of this buttered spinach recipe is its ease of preparation. From start to finish, it takes just 15 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re cooking a large family meal or a quick solo dinner, this dish is a time-saver that doesn’t compromise on taste.
2. Rich and Flavorful
Many spinach recipes tend to be bland, but this one incorporates butter, garlic, and onion powder to elevate the taste. The addition of apple cider vinegar provides a slight tang, enhancing the overall depth of flavor and balancing out the richness of the butter.
3. A Perfect Side Dish for Any Meal
Buttered spinach is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re having grilled chicken, steak, roasted salmon, or a vegetarian dish, this spinach recipe complements nearly any entrée. It’s also a fantastic side for holiday feasts, adding a nutritious and flavorful green component to the table.
4. Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is widely known for its high nutritional value. It’s an excellent source of:
- Iron: Essential for red blood cell production and oxygen transport.
- Calcium: Supports strong bones and teeth.
- Vitamin C: Helps boost the immune system and improves skin health.
- Vitamin A: Supports vision and overall immune function.
- Fiber: Aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
By cooking spinach with minimal ingredients and healthy fats, you preserve most of its nutritional benefits while enhancing its taste.
The Secret to Perfect Buttered Spinach
Making the perfect buttered spinach requires attention to detail, even though the recipe is simple. Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
1. Use High-Quality Butter
Since butter plays a central role in this dish, opt for unsalted, high-quality butter for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a richer taste, try European-style butter, which has a higher fat content and a more robust flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Spinach
Overcooking spinach can cause it to become mushy and lose its vibrant green color. To maintain a fresh taste and a slightly tender texture, cook it just until it’s heated through and has absorbed the seasonings.
3. Add Vinegar for a Flavor Boost
Apple cider vinegar might seem like an unusual ingredient in a buttered spinach recipe, but it’s a key element that brings balance to the dish. It cuts through the richness of the butter and enhances the natural earthy taste of the spinach. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
4. Season Thoughtfully
Spinach can absorb flavors quickly, so adding the right amount of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper is crucial. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust as needed. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a gentle heat to the dish if you enjoy a bit of spice.
5. Use Frozen Spinach for Convenience
Fresh spinach is great, but frozen spinach is a fantastic time-saver. It’s pre-washed, pre-cut, and cooks quickly. Plus, frozen spinach retains its nutritional value just as well as fresh spinach. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid after cooking to avoid a watery dish.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Buttered Spinach
This buttered spinach recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some great ideas to try:
1. Protein-Rich Mains
- Grilled Chicken or Steak: The richness of the spinach balances well with grilled meats.
- Baked Salmon or White Fish: The buttery spinach complements the delicate flavor of fish.
- Pan-Seared Tofu: A great vegetarian pairing, with the spinach adding depth and richness.
2. Classic Comfort Foods
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs well with the buttery spinach.
- Mac and Cheese: For a comforting meal, serve this spinach alongside creamy mac and cheese.
- Rice or Quinoa: The spinach makes a great topping for grains, adding nutrients and flavor.
3. Breakfast and Brunch Ideas
- Scrambled Eggs and Toast: Serve buttered spinach alongside eggs for a healthy breakfast.
- Omelets: Add some of this seasoned spinach to an omelet with cheese for a delicious meal.
- Avocado Toast: Top your toast with buttered spinach and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra boost of flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you can easily store and reheat them for later use.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Although possible, freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of spinach changes when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm the spinach on the stove over low heat with a little extra butter for best results. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the spinach too soggy.
Conclusion:
This Savory Buttered Spinach recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create a delicious and satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it as a quick side for a busy weeknight meal or serving it as part of a larger feast, this spinach recipe is sure to impress.
Its combination of buttery richness, balanced seasoning, and slight tanginess from vinegar makes it a standout side dish that enhances any meal. Plus, with its nutritional benefits and quick prep time, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.