Are you looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This spinach and squash recipe is a perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend dinner. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It's one of those best recipes that's both satisfying and simple to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea. This recipe is a testament to how homemade cooking can be both delicious and effortless.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 1 ½ pounds)
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a flavorful base for the entire dish.
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Add the squash and broth: Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir to coat with the oil and aromatics. Pour in the vegetable broth, add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
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Incorporate the spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will quickly wilt in the warm broth, adding a vibrant green color and a boost of nutrients to this healthy meal.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve the spinach and squash stew hot. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. This hearty and healthy dish is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chickpeas, lentils, or white beans.
- Other squash varieties: Feel free to use other types of squash, such as acorn squash or kabocha squash. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the type of squash you choose.
- Creamier consistency: For a creamier stew, blend a portion of the cooked squash before adding the spinach.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without cheese):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
This easy recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food can be. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making it an excellent choice for those looking for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. This flavorful and nutritious dish is a wonderful addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking. Enjoy!