Spinach is one of the most nutritious and versatile greens available. Whether you prefer fresh spinach salad or cooked spinach, there are a variety of easy methods to prepare this leafy green vegetable. In this article, we’ll discuss how to cook spinach, from steaming to sautéing to boiling, and answer some frequently asked spinach questions.
Preparing The Spinach
Before you begin cooking spinach, it’s important to wash it thoroughly. Spinach can be found in the produce section of your local grocery store and typically comes packaged in plastic bags. Often times, the leaves are pre-washed but to be safe, we still recommend giving them a thorough rinse in the sink. Fill up a large bowl or sink with cold water and toss in the unwashed spinach. Swirl the spinach around in the water to remove dirt and debris. Repeat this process as necessary until the water runs clear.
Next, remove any large stems or blemished leaves from the spinach. Trim off the bottom stalks, where the stem starts to get larger, and discard. You can cook spinach with or without the stems, but depending on the method, they may need to be removed.
Finally, give the spinach a shake or pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. You can also use a salad spinner to remove excess water.
How To Cook Spinach
Spinach can be cooked in a variety of ways, including steaming, sautéing, boiling, and blanching. Here are a few techniques to try:
Steaming Spinach
Steaming spinach is one of the healthiest ways to cook it. To start, fill a large pot with a little water and set it to boil. While the water is heating up, prepare the spinach by washing it and removing any large stems, as mentioned earlier. Once the water is boiling, place the spinach in a steamer basket or metal colander and set it over the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and let the spinach steam for 2-3 minutes.
After steaming, the spinach should look wilted. Remove the spinach from the steamer basket and empty any excess water. Serve as desired, with a little salt or your favorite seasonings.
Sautéing Spinach
Sautéing spinach is a great way to cook it quickly with a little added flavor. Begin by heating a little oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. You can also add some chopped onions or garlic for extra flavor. Once the oil is hot, add the spinach and use tongs to toss it around the skillet. Sauté the spinach for 2-3 minutes until it’s brightly colored and tender.
As with the steamed spinach, remove any excess water and season with salt and pepper as desired.
Boiling Spinach
Boiling spinach is another popular method of cooking it. Begin by filling a large pot with plenty of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then add the spinach to the pot. Let the spinach boil for 1-2 minutes until it’s wilted and tender. Drain the spinach in a colander and rinse it under cool water for a few seconds to stop the cooking process.
Blanching Spinach
Blanching spinach involves briefly boiling it, then transferring it quickly to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This is a great technique for preserving the spinach’s vibrant green color and tender texture. Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add the spinach to the pot and let it boil for 1-2 minutes. Then, remove the spinach from the pot and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water. Let it sit in the ice bath for 1-2 minutes before removing and draining any excess water.
FAQs About Spinach
1. What are some other ways I can use spinach besides cooking it?
Spinach is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. Try adding fresh spinach to salads, smoothies, or sandwiches. You can also use it as a bed for cooked meats or fish. Lastly, spinach can be blended into sauces or dips for added nutrition and flavor.
2. Can I eat spinach raw?
Yes! Spinach can be eaten raw, and is often found in salads. Just make sure you thoroughly wash the spinach before consuming.
3. Is spinach high in nutrients?
Yes! Spinach is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. It’s also low in calories and high in antioxidants.
4. How long can I store spinach in the fridge?
Fresh spinach can be stored in the fridge for a few days if stored properly. To store, wrap the spinach in a damp paper towel and put it in a plastic bag or container. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
5. Can I freeze spinach?
Yes! Spinach can be frozen for later use. Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly, then blanch it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. Transfer the spinach to an ice bath, then drain and pat it dry. Place the spinach in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
In conclusion, spinach is a highly nutritious and versatile vegetable that’s easy to cook in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer your spinach steamed, sautéed, boiled, or blanched, there’s a method for everyone. Use these tips and techniques to cook spinach to perfection and enjoy this delicious and healthy vegetable in your meals.
