When it comes to creamy, flavorful Indian dishes, Palak Paneer is a classic favorite that never fails to impress. This rich and vibrant curry, made with spinach puree and paneer (Indian cheese), is a staple in many Indian households and restaurants. With its versatility and endless possibilities for experimentation, it’s no wonder why Palak Paneer has become a beloved dish around the world.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 creamy Palak Paneer recipes that cater to every occasion – from simple weeknight meals to elaborate dinner parties. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and traditional or bold and innovative, we’ve got you covered with a range of variations that incorporate fresh spinach, aromatic spices, and tangy flavors.
Classic Palak Paneer with Fresh Spinach
Palak paneer is a beloved Indian dish that combines the creaminess of spinach puree with the velvety texture of paneer (Indian cheese). This classic recipe uses fresh spinach for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the spinach leaves with butter, garlic, cumin, and garam masala powder until smooth.
2. Heat the mixture in a pan over medium heat, adding salt to taste.
3. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Palak Paneer
This recipe combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a garlicky butter sauce. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the paneer and cook until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the spinach with garlic, flour, and salt until smooth.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Pour in the spinach mixture and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve the garlic butter palak paneer hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Palak Paneer with Green Chilies
Experience the perfect blend of creamy spinach and spicy kick in this flavorful Indian dish. This Spicy Palak Paneer recipe is a delicious twist on the classic, featuring the addition of green chilies for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package paneer (Indian cheese), cut into cubes
– 2 cups fresh palak (spinach) leaves
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 3-4 green chilies, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and garam masala; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped green chilies and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Add palak leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Add paneer cubes and heavy cream or half-and-half; stir to combine.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Coconut Palak Paneer
A rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish, Creamy Coconut Palak Paneer combines the smoothness of coconut milk with the tanginess of spinach and the creaminess of paneer. This recipe is a twist on traditional palak paneer, adding a luxurious touch with coconut cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
7. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
8. Stir in coconut cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Cashew Gravy
Palak paneer is a popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of spinach and cheese. This recipe takes it to the next level by adding a rich cashew gravy, creating a velvety smooth and indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup paneer cubes (Indian cheese)
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Blend spinach, cashews, and 1 tablespoon butter until smooth.
2. Heat remaining butter in a pan. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add paneer cubes and cook until golden brown.
4. Pour in the blended spinach mixture and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the gravy thickens.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Tandoori Palak Paneer
Experience the rich flavors of India with this creamy and smoky palak paneer dish, infused with the warmth of tandoor-cooked spices. This recipe is a twist on the classic spinach curry with paneer cheese.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon tandoori masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup palak (spinach puree)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
3. Add paneer cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides.
4. Add tandoori masala powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Stir in spinach puree and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Fenugreek Leaves
Palak Paneer with Fenugreek Leaves: A creamy and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the earthy flavor of palak (spinach) and fenugreek leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups palak (fresh spinach) leaves
– 1/4 cup fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the ginger paste and sauté for 30 seconds.
2. Add the palak and fenugreek leaves to the pan. Cook until the greens are wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin powder and salt. Stir well.
4. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to combine with the spinach mixture.
5. Pour in the heavy cream or whole milk. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer Stuffed Paratha
This recipe combines the creamy flavors of Palak Paneer with the crispy texture of a paratha, creating a unique and delicious Indian-inspired dish. Perfect as a snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup Palak Paneer (see recipe for Palak Paneer)
+ 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a ball and flatten slightly.
6. Place 1-2 tablespoons of Palak Paneer filling in the center of each flattened dough piece.
7. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or circle shape.
8. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle for 30-40 seconds on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per paratha
Palak Paneer Pizza with Naan Crust
Combine the creamy richness of Palak Paneer with the crispy, buttery goodness of pizza crust, and you’ll get a dish that will transport your taste buds to the spice routes of India. This unique recipe combines the flavors of spinach, paneer (Indian cheese), and spices with the comfort of a classic pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 package naan bread
– 1 cup Palak Paneer sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz paneer, crumbled
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out naan bread and place on a baking sheet.
3. Spread Palak Paneer sauce evenly over the naan crust.
4. Top with crumbled paneer, mozzarella cheese, and chopped cilantro.
5. Sprinkle garam masala powder and salt to taste.
6. Drizzle olive oil around the edges of the pizza.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Palak Paneer Pasta Bake
This innovative recipe combines the rich flavors of Indian palak paneer with the comforting warmth of a pasta bake. The result is a unique and delicious dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup frozen spinach puree (palak)
– 1 cup cooked paneer cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in palak puree, paneer cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, spinach mixture, and crumbled paneer. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Palak Paneer and Sweet Corn Curry
This recipe combines the richness of Palak Paneer with the sweetness of sweet corn, creating a unique and flavorful curry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer cubes
– 2 cups palak (spinach) puree
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add palak puree and sweet corn kernels. Mix well.
5. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
7. If using heavy cream, stir it in just before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Palak Paneer with Mustard Greens
This rich and flavorful Indian-inspired dish combines the creamy texture of paneer (Indian cheese) with the earthy taste of mustard greens and spinach. Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mustard greens, chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 250ml heavy cream
– 20g butter
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add mustard greens, spinach, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
5. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
6. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A creamy and savory fusion of Indian spices and fresh flavors, this Palak Paneer and Mushroom Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious meal option for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup palak paneer mix
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into cubes
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the palak paneer mix and cook according to package instructions (usually 1-2 minutes).
5. Add the paneer cubes and stir-fry until they are coated with the sauce (about 2 minutes).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
8. Serve hot over basmati rice or naan bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Palak Paneer Kofta in Tomato Gravy
This recipe combines the creamy richness of palak paneer with the excitement of koftas and a tangy tomato gravy, creating a dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1/2 cup spinach puree
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Tomato Gravy (see below)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Tomato Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Mix crumbled paneer, spinach puree, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, and cumin powder.
2. Shape into koftas and fry until golden brown.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
4. Add water and simmer until the gravy thickens.
5. Serve koftas in the tomato gravy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer Biryani with Basmati Rice
Palak Paneer Biryani with Basmati Rice: A creamy and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that combines the richness of spinach and paneer with the aromatic taste of basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup palak paneer (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the palak paneer and stir well to combine with the onion mixture.
4. Add 1 cup of water to the rice and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and mix it with the palak paneer mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Palak Paneer Tacos with Mint Chutney
Elevate your taco game with this innovative fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors. Creamy spinach and paneer (Indian cheese) come together in a flavorful filling, served in crispy tacos and topped with a refreshing mint chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup palak paneer filling (see below for recipe)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mint chutney (see below for recipe)
– Cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Palak Paneer Filling:
– 1/2 cup paneer, crumbled
– 1 cup cooked spinach puree
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the palak paneer filling according to the recipe above.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the tacos by spooning the palak paneer filling onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a dollop of mint chutney.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Palak Paneer Stuffed Bell Peppers
Palak Paneer Stuffed Bell Peppers: A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers!
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup Palak Paneer mixture (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Palak Paneer Mixture:
– 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1/4 cup cooked spinach puree
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add cumin, salt, and Palak Paneer mixture. Stir well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the filling, dividing it evenly.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Palak Paneer and Potato Curry
Palak Paneer and Potato Curry: A Rich and Creamy Indian Delight
This recipe combines the creamy richness of palak paneer with the comforting warmth of potato curry, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup palak paneer (cream spinach curry)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the palak paneer curry. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer with Roasted Garlic
This popular Indian dish gets a rich and aromatic twist with the addition of roasted garlic, blending perfectly with the creamy spinach sauce and tender paneer cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package paneer (Indian cheese), cut into cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30 minutes, or until soft.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, turmeric, and roasted garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and paneer cubes. Season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer Palak Paneer over low heat for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Palak Paneer and Lentil Stew
Experience the rich flavors of India with this comforting Palak Paneer and Lentil Stew, a creamy and nutritious meal that combines the best of spinach, paneer cheese, and red lentils. This recipe is easy to make and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup paneer cheese, cut into small cubes
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lentils and water/broth; bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Add paneer cheese and stir until melted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of India with these 20 creamy Palak Paneer recipes! From classic and traditional to innovative and modern twists, this collection has something for every occasion. Enjoy velvety sauces, tender paneer, and fresh spinach in dishes like Garlic Butter Palak Paneer, Spicy Palak Paneer with Green Chilies, and Creamy Coconut Palak Paneer. Try new flavor combinations like Palak Paneer Pizza with Naan Crust or Palak Paneer Tacos with Mint Chutney. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a unique dinner party idea, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
