Craving that delicious, creamy spinach side dish you always enjoy at Ruth's Chris Steak House? You don't have to dine out to experience it! This recipe delivers the same rich, savory flavor and perfectly wilted texture, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. It's a surprisingly easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests during a special occasion. This healthy and delicious side dish is a fantastic addition to any meal, whether it's steak, chicken, or fish. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This slow cooking process brings out the best flavor in the onions.
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Wilt the Spinach: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it wilts completely, about 3-5 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed for even wilting.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; some may prefer a bit more garlic or nutmeg. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh spinach is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Frozen spinach will work in a pinch, but ensure it's thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry before adding it to the skillet.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked spinach will become mushy. Cook it just until it's wilted and tender-crisp.
- Adjust the Cream: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or even a combination of milk and cream.
Variations:
- Spicy Spinach: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Garlic Lover's Spinach: Increase the amount of garlic to your liking for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Mushroom Spinach: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions for an added layer of flavor and texture.
- Bacon Spinach: Crumble some cooked bacon into the spinach for extra richness and savory flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on variations and serving size) Fat: 10-15g Protein: 5-7g Carbohydrates: 5-8g
This Ruth's Chris-inspired spinach recipe is a fantastic example of how easy it is to create restaurant-quality food at home. It's a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a perfect addition to any homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy!