The epic journey of sauteed spinach with garlic, a nutritious holiday side dish

 During Christmas holidays, kitchens are constantly filled with the aromas of roasted meats, sweet pies and festive spices. But amidst the indulgent feasts, there’s always room for a side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious: sauteed spinach with garlic. This simple yet elegant dish is steeped in history, packed with nutrients and perfect for Christmas dinner.

Spinach: The nutritional powerhouse

Spinach, the star of this dish, has a fascinating journey that spans continents and centuries. It is believed to have been initially cultivated by the Persians around 700 AD. The Persians developed an irrigation method that allowed the plant to thrive, overcoming its tendency to bolt in hot climates.

From Persia, spinach made its way to China as a gift from the king of Nepal to the Chinese Emperor. By the 11th century, it had reached Spain, thanks to the Moors, and eventually found its way to Italy, where it became a beloved ingredient.

One of the most intriguing chapters in spinach’s history involves Catherine de Medici, the Italian-born queen of France. Legend has it that she adored spinach so much that when she married King Henry II, she brought her love for the leafy green with her to France. Dishes featuring spinach became known as "a la Florentine," a nod to her Florentine roots.

Interestingly, during the 17th century, spinach was often cooked with sugar and used in sweet recipes, showcasing its versatility even then. (

In the United States, spinach faced a decline in popularity during the 1930s. However, its fortunes changed dramatically with the creation of the iconic comic strip character Popeye the Sailor Man. Created by E.C. Segar, Popeye’s love for spinach was said to be inspired by a miscalculation of its iron content in the 19th century.

While spinach's actual iron content is lower than initially thought, the cartoon’s impact was undeniable. Spinach sales soared, and the town of Crystal City, Texas, even erected a statue of Popeye in gratitude for the vegetable’s revival.

Spinach is more than just a tasty green — it’s a nutritional powerhouse. One cup of raw spinach contains just seven calories and an abundance of essential vitamins and minerals. It provides 29.7 milligrams (mg) of calcium, 0.81 grams (g) of iron, 24 mg of magnesium and 167 mg of potassium. Spinach is also a great source of vitamins A, C and K, as well as folate and fiber.

Iron is a standout nutrient in spinach. This nutrient is crucial for transporting oxygen in the blood and supporting healthy immune function. While spinach contains less iron than previously believed, pairing it with vitamin C-rich foods (like garlic) can enhance iron absorption.

Calcium, though present in spinach, is less easily absorbed due to its oxalate content, but it still contributes to overall bone health.

Spinach is also a treasure trove of active plant compounds, including lutein, kaempferol, nitrates, quercetin and zeaxanthin. These compounds play vital roles in supporting eye health, reducing inflammation and preventing chronic diseases like cancer.

Studies suggest that diets rich in green vegetables, like spinach, may lower the risk of certain cancers and improve overall health.

Garlic: A flavorful addition to sauteed spinach

Garlic, the aromatic ingredient in sauteed spinach, is more than just a flavor enhancer; this humble bulb has been revered for its medicinal properties since ancient times.

Civilizations from Egypt to China documented its use for maintaining health and healing. Today, scientists attribute many of garlic’s benefits to sulfur compounds formed when the cloves are chopped, crushed or chewed. One of the most well-known garlic compounds is allicin, which can support good health.

Garlic is also a nutritional powerhouse, containing fiber, manganese, selenium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. A single clove of garlic has just 4.5 calories but packs a punch in terms of health benefits.

Garlic has been shown to boost the immune system, making it an ideal ingredient during cold and flu season.

It also contains antioxidants that support overall health. Additionally, garlic contains compounds that may help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

Sauteed spinach with garlic recipe

Sauteed spinach with garlic is a dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying. The key to success lies in preparing the spinach properly.

Wash the leaves thoroughly, even if they’re labeled as pre-washed, to remove any grit. Smaller leaves are generally more tender and less bitter, making them ideal for this dish. You can season your sauteed spinach with garlic with salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor.

For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces baby spinach leaves, fresh (ideal) or frozen
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts or toasted pine nuts (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Kosher salt and black pepper

Instructions:

1. If you’re using fresh spinach, wash and dry it thoroughly. Use a salad spinner if you have one. If you’re using frozen spinach, defrost it and squeeze out the excess water using a clean dishtowel or a paper towel.
2. Place a large frying pan on the stove and add the olive oil. Heat the pan and oil over medium heat.
3. When the frying pan is warm, add the spinach and let it cook down for about three minutes.
4. After the cooked spinach has wilted in the pan, add the garlic and lemon juice. The mixture will become watery.
5. Increase the heat to medium-high and continue cooking the spinach until the liquid evaporates for around five minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the sauteed spinach from the skillet, then plate it and top the spinach with pine nuts if you’re using them.

Serve sauteed spinach with garlic with complementary dishes like baked chicken breasts, roasted chicken thighs or a hearty meatloaf. Add some red pepper flakes to the sauteed leafy greens to give the side dish a spicy kick. Alternatively, you can add cream or cream cheese to make creamed spinach.

As many families gather around the Christmas table, meals often lean toward indulgence. Rich desserts, savory roasts and creamy casseroles dominate the spread. But a side dish of savory sauteed spinach with garlic offers a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the meal with its vibrant green color and healthful properties.

The dish’s nutritional profile makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet during the holidays. Spinach’s high fiber content promotes digestive regularity, while its magnesium content supports muscle and nerve function. Garlic’s immune-boosting properties can help keep guests feeling their best, even during the busiest time of year.