Are you looking for a comforting recipe full of nutrients? Do not look any further! Our creamed spinach is the perfect combination of flavor and health in one dish.
Spinach, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, is the undisputed protagonist of this recipe. A superfood that is not only delicious, but also offers numerous health benefits.
Spinach Cream
Preparing this Creamed Spinach is simple and quick, and the result is a soft texture and a flavor that will leave you wanting more. Are you ready to try a homemade version of this classic soup? Keep reading to find out how to make it in your own kitchen!
4
Portions15
minute25
minute150
kcal40
minuteIngredients:
500 grams of fresh spinach
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 Tablespoons of butter or olive oil
3 coup of vegetable broth or water
1 Cup of milk cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese to decorate (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the spinach well under cold water to remove any dirt. Drain them and roughly chop them.
- In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it has wilted, about 5 minutes.
- Pour the vegetable broth or water into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the spinach is tender.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, use a hand blender or glass blender to puree the mixture until you obtain a smooth, homogeneous cream.
- Return the cream to the pot and heat over medium-low heat. Add the milk cream and mix well. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg to taste.
- Cook the cream for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Serve the creamed spinach hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious soup!
Tips
- Spinach selection: Opt for fresh, good quality spinach to get the best flavor and texture in your cream. Avoid wilted or yellowed leaves.
- Proper washing: Be sure to wash the spinach well to remove any dirt or other contaminants. You can soak them in cold water and then drain them in a colander.
- finely chopped: Chop the onion and garlic finely so that they integrate well into the cream and there are no large pieces.
- Salt control: Be careful with the amount of salt you add, especially if you are using already salted vegetable broth. It is always better to add salt at the end and adjust according to your taste.
- Touch of nutmeg: Nutmeg is a seasoning that enhances the flavor of spinach. Add a pinch at the end for extra flavor.
- Cream texture: If you prefer a thicker cream, you can add less broth or more spinach. For a lighter texture, you can thin the cream with a little more broth or water.
- Decoration: Before serving, you can sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of cream to give a final decorative and flavor touch.
- Accompaniments: This creamed spinach is delicious on its own, but you can also accompany it with bread croutons or a squeeze of lemon for a fresh touch.
Nutritional information
- Calories 150kcal
- Carbohydrates 10g
- Protein 3g
- Fat 10g
- Saturated fat: 6g
- Sodium: 498mg
- Fiber 4g
- Sugar 3g
Creamed Spinach and health benefits
Here are some health benefits associated with the main ingredients in creamed spinach:
- Spinach:
- High in nutrients such as iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C and vitamin K.
- Provides antioxidants that can help fight cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Beneficial for eye health due to its lutein and zeaxanthin content.
- It can help regulate blood pressure due to its potassium and natural nitrate content.
- Onion and Garlic:
- They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of disease.
- They can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve cardiovascular health.
- They contain sulfur compounds that may have protective effects against cancer.
- Alternative milk cream (if used):
- Alternatives to heavy cream may be lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than traditional heavy cream.
- They may be an option for people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
- Vegetable broth (if using):
- Low in calories and fat, but rich in flavor.
- It can help keep you hydrated and provide additional nutrients from the vegetables used in its preparation.
In short, creamed spinach can offer a variety of health benefits, from providing a wide range of nutrients to helping maintain heart health and strengthening the immune system.
History of Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a dish that has existed for centuries in various culinary cultures. Although there is no specific story that identifies its exact origin, we can explore some aspects of its evolution:
- European culinary heritage: In European cuisine, especially in countries such as France, Italy and Spain, vegetable-based soups and creams have been part of gastronomy for centuries. Combining spinach with other ingredients to make a comforting and tasty cream probably originated in this region.
- Influence of French cuisine: The influence of French cuisine on world cuisine may also have contributed to the popularity of creamed spinach. French cuisine is known for its sophisticated techniques and use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, which may have led to the creation of this recipe.
- Regional adaptations: Over time, different regions and cultures have adapted the creamed spinach recipe according to their own ingredients and culinary preferences. For example, in North America, creamed spinach is often served with grated cheese or baked au gratin, adding a different touch to the original version.
- Health and nutrition: As health and nutrition awareness has increased in recent years, creamed spinach has become even more popular due to its reputation as a healthy and nutritious dish. Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an attractive option for those looking to eat healthier.
In summary, creamed spinach is a dish that has evolved over time, influenced by various culinary cultures and adapted according to people's preferences and needs. Its popularity endures due to its delicious flavor, versatility, and health benefits.
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Image credit: Freepik
