Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something flavorful, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This creamed spinach with mushroom recipe is the perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or special occasion meals. It's a delightful blend of creamy textures, earthy mushroom flavors, and the fresh taste of spinach, making it a crowd-pleasing side that's both healthy and satisfying. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, offering a delicious dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s one of the best recipes for a quick dinner idea, elevating any meal effortlessly.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Mushrooms and Shallot: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced shallot, and cook until the mushrooms are softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Add Garlic and Spinach: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it wilts, about 3-5 minutes.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.
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Serve and Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the creamed spinach with mushrooms immediately as a delightful side dish alongside your favorite protein and starch.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't Overcook the Spinach: Overcooked spinach will become mushy. Cook it just until it wilts.
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh spinach gives the best flavor and texture. Frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a tablespoon or two of milk or chicken broth. For a richer sauce, use more heavy cream or crème fraîche.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even some sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a delicious vegan version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This creamed spinach with mushroom recipe is a simple yet elegant side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Its quick preparation time and delicious flavor make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Enjoy!