Healthy Sauteed Spinach and Carrots
Finding quick, nutritious, and delicious side dishes is key for maintaining a balanced diet. Sautéed spinach and carrots provide a simple and tasty way to incorporate vibrant vegetables into your meals. Rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this dish is perfect for boosting your daily veggie intake. Whether served as a side, added to a grain bowl, or enjoyed on its own, this versatile recipe is easy to customize and bursting with flavor. With a few optional ingredients, you can tailor it to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ pounds fresh baby spinach (or regular spinach, trimmed)
– ¼ cup olive oil (or your preferred vegetable oil)
– 1 ¼ cups carrots, thinly sliced
– ½ cup onion, chopped
– 4-6 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt
**Flavor Options:**
– ½ – 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– 2-3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1-3 teaspoons lemon juice
**Optional Vegetable Additions:**
– 4 small shallots, thinly sliced (as a substitute for garlic and onion)
– 4 cups mushrooms, sliced
– 3-4 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or 3 large tomatoes, chopped)
– 1 can (28oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
Wash and dry the spinach, discarding any hard stems if using regular spinach. Thinly slice the carrots for even cooking. If using extra vegetables like mushrooms or tomatoes, prepare them according to your preference.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:**
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic (or shallots if substituting) and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. **Cook the Carrots:**
Add the sliced carrots to the skillet and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the carrots start to soften but still retain a slight crunch.
4. **Add the Spinach:**
Gradually add the spinach, tossing it with the onions, garlic, and carrots. Baby spinach will wilt quickly; regular spinach may take a few extra minutes to become tender. Stir continuously to ensure even cooking.
5. **Season and Enhance the Flavors:**
Once the spinach has wilted, season the mixture with salt and pepper. Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat, if desired. Stir in balsamic vinegar and lemon juice to add brightness to the dish, and adjust seasoning to taste.
6. **Customize with Extra Vegetables (Optional):**
If using additional vegetables like mushrooms or tomatoes, add them now. Cook until the mushrooms soften and release their juices, or until the tomatoes are heated through. For canned tomatoes, ensure they are well-drained before adding.
7. **Finish and Serve:**
Once all vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more lemon juice or balsamic vinegar if needed. Serve hot as a delicious side dish, or enjoy as part of a larger meal.
This versatile sautéed spinach and carrots dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a flavorful, healthy way to enjoy more veggies!