Are you looking for a way to incorporate more nutrients into your diet? Look no further than spinach! This superfood is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help boost your energy levels, improve your eye health, and even reduce your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers. And the best part? Spinach is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of delicious recipes.
From savory main dishes to sweet breakfast treats, spinach is the perfect ingredient to add some extra nutrition and flavor to your meals. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious spinach recipes that you’re sure to love. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for ways to get more greens into your diet, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with spinach in the kitchen.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of feta cheese with the nutrient-richness of spinach. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines sautéed mushrooms and spinach with a velvety cream sauce, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. With its creamy texture and earthy flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in a little oil until tender.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian dish combines tender shells filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Sautéed Spinach
A simple yet flavorful way to cook spinach, this recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the richness of butter to create a delicious and nutritious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package fresh spinach leaves (about 10 oz)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the spinach leaves and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the spinach leaves in batches, stirring constantly to wilt them evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A classic party favorite that’s sure to please! This rich and creamy spinach and artichoke dip is perfect for game days, gatherings, or just a cozy night in with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup of sour cream
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Goat Cheese Quiche
This quiche is a delightful combination of creamy goat cheese, wilted spinach, and flaky crust, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, wilt the spinach with a pinch of salt until tender. Drain excess liquid.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Arrange the spinach mixture and crumbled goat cheese on the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling, followed by the grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of nutritious spinach and protein-rich lentils, making it an excellent option for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add lentils, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and spinach leaves. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until spinach is wilted.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Salad with Warm Dressing
This savory salad combines the richness of crispy bacon with the earthy flavor of wilted spinach, all tied together with a sweet and tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add olive oil, butter, and honey to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the dressing thickens slightly.
5. Wilt the spinach leaves by pouring the warm dressing over them. Stir until the spinach is coated.
6. Crumble the cooked bacon into the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty curry combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of spinach, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for any occasion. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach and coconut milk; season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Parmesan Risotto
A classic Italian dish gets a boost from fresh spinach and nutty Parmesan cheese. This creamy risotto is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture, stirring until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in the spinach and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Chickpea Stew
This hearty and comforting stew is a perfect blend of nutritious spinach and creamy chickpeas, all wrapped up in a flavorful broth. It’s an easy and satisfying meal option for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, and fresh spinach leaves to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook until the spinach has wilted, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Frittata
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and eggs.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in a 9-inch (23cm) non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes; cook for an additional minute.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to set.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until eggs are almost set.
8. Remove from oven, let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spinach and Pine Nut Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the nutrients of spinach with the richness of pine nuts. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup pitted pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine spinach, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Process until well combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue processing until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pesto mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Season with lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with fresh spinach and savory aromatics, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and onion and cook until softened, about 1 minute.
4. Add the spinach to the skillet and stir-fry until wilted, about 30 seconds.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Cheddar Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe featuring earthy portobello mushrooms stuffed with a vibrant spinach and cheddar filling. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, cheddar cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Corn Enchiladas
This recipe combines the flavors of creamy spinach, sweet corn, and tender tortillas to create a mouthwatering enchilada dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the enchiladas by dipping a tortilla in the spinach mixture, then rolling it up and placing it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
5. Top with cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Walnut Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the earthy taste of spinach with the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, brown rice, parsley, walnuts, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the spinach mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spinach and Blue Cheese Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of spinach and blue cheese. This recipe yields a crispy crust, tangy cheese, and savory greens that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread olive oil evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles and fresh spinach leaves on top of the crust.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Egg Breakfast Wrap
Start your day with a nutrient-packed breakfast wrap that combines the creaminess of scrambled eggs, the earthiness of spinach, and the crunch of crispy tortilla. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a busy morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 whole wheat tortilla (10-12 inches)
– Optional: shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
3. Add chopped spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted.
4. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wrap by spreading the egg-spinach mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Coconut Milk Smoothie
A refreshing and healthy blend of spinach, coconut milk, and tropical flavors, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to go green with these 20 delicious spinach recipes! From savory main dishes like Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast and Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta, to healthy snacks like Garlic Butter Sautéed Spinach and decadent desserts like Spinach and Artichoke Dip, there’s something for everyone. Plus, discover creative twists on classic comfort foods, like Spinach and Sweet Potato Curry and Spinach and Chickpea Stew. With so many mouthwatering options, you’ll never get bored with the same old spinach recipes again!
