This speedy side dish made of spinach stir-fried with garlic and soy sauce is a favorite of ours for several reasons: It's incredibly simple to prepare, yet the flavor is complex and satisfying; it's a great vehicle for delivering the health benefits of leafy greens into your diet; and it's an excellent way to use up the last bits of greens in your fridge. Follow our lead and use fresh baby spinach for a tender texture and mild flavor, but feel free to substitute mature spinach; just be sure to remove the stems and give the leaves a thorough washing to remove any grit. Serve this versatile dish by itself, as an accompaniment to grilled fish or chicken, or over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Stir-fried greens have been a staple of Chinese cuisine for centuries. The quick cooking time preserves the vibrant color and nutrients of the vegetables, while the combination of garlic and soy sauce adds a savory and umami-rich flavor. This particular recipe is a simplified version of a classic stir-fried spinach dish, using only a few basic ingredients and a quick cooking time. The result is a simple yet flavorful side dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal.
Prep time: 5 | Cook time: 5 | Serves: 2
Ingredients
1 bunch spinach, washed and chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted.
Stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
Cook for an additional minute, or until the spinach is heated through.
Why It Works
The combination of garlic and soy sauce creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
The quick cooking time preserves the vibrant color and nutrients of the spinach.
The dish is incredibly simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.