Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

Introduction

Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach is a simple, yet flavorful side dish that combines earthy mushrooms with the freshness of spinach. Sautéing the mushrooms brings out their rich umami flavor, while the spinach wilts to provide a vibrant, tender bite. The dish is enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of seasoning, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal.

I first made this dish when I was looking for something light and healthy, but packed with flavor. The earthy mushrooms pair perfectly with the slightly bitter spinach, creating a balanced and satisfying side. What’s great is how quickly it comes together—within minutes, you have a tasty and nutritious addition to your meal. You can also adjust the seasoning to fit your preferences, whether you like a little extra garlic, a dash of red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.

Whether served alongside steak, chicken, or as a light vegetarian option, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Holiday meals
• Vegan or vegetarian meals
• Light side dishes
• Meal prep

Why You’ll Love This Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

Here’s why Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach will become your go-to side dish:

• Simple and Quick: This dish comes together in under 15 minutes with minimal prep, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful: The combination of mushrooms and spinach with garlic and olive oil creates a savory and satisfying dish.
• Healthy: Packed with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this dish is both delicious and nourishing.
• Versatile: It pairs well with almost any main dish, from grilled meats to pasta, or even as a standalone meal for vegetarians.
• Customizable: Feel free to add herbs, spices, or a splash of balsamic vinegar to customize the flavor to your liking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120-150 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 7g, Fat: 9g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini mushrooms work well)
• 4 cups fresh spinach (about 6 oz)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Mushrooms: Mushrooms provide a rich, earthy flavor and a meaty texture, making them a perfect base for this dish.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a bright, leafy freshness and a good dose of vitamins, especially iron and vitamin K.
• Garlic: Garlic adds a savory depth to the dish, complementing the mushrooms and spinach beautifully.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil brings a silky richness to the dish, while allowing the ingredients to sauté to perfection.
• Balsamic Vinegar (Optional): A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy, slightly sweet finish that balances the savory flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Clean the Mushrooms: Gently wipe the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice them into even pieces.
2. Prep the Spinach: Wash the spinach leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel or a salad spinner. If the spinach leaves are large, roughly chop them.

Sauté the Mushrooms and Spinach:

3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
4. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet in a single layer. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender. If the mushrooms release a lot of liquid, continue to cook until it evaporates, concentrating the flavor.
5. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Add the Spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time, stirring until it wilts. This should take 2-3 minutes.
7. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add the crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
8. Finish with Balsamic Vinegar: If you’d like to add a touch of sweetness and acidity, drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the sautéed mushrooms and spinach, stirring to combine.

Serve:

9. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the sautéed mushrooms and spinach to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.

How to Serve Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• As a Side Dish: Pair this with grilled or roasted meats like steak, chicken, or pork for a balanced meal.
• With Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and delicious vegetarian meal.
• On Toast: Serve the sautéed mushrooms and spinach on toasted bread for a light lunch or brunch.
• As a Salad Topping: Use this dish as a warm topping for a salad with arugula, goat cheese, and walnuts.
• On Pizza: Add this sautéed mixture to a pizza for an extra burst of flavor.

Additional Tips for Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

Here are some tips to ensure your Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach is perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully and adds a tender texture to the dish. Avoid frozen spinach, which can become mushy when cooked.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the mushrooms in a single layer to ensure they brown evenly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your preferences. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can elevate the flavors.
• Keep the Heat Medium: If the heat is too high, the mushrooms may burn instead of browning, so keep the heat at medium to get the perfect sauté.
• Try Other Greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach, you can substitute other greens like kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for a different flavor profile.

Recipe Variations for Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

Here are 5 variations you can try for Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach:

• Mushrooms and Garlic Butter Spinach: Replace the olive oil with butter and add an extra clove of garlic for a rich, garlicky flavor.
• Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach and Goat Cheese: Add crumbled goat cheese to the dish right before serving for a tangy, creamy twist.
• Mushrooms with Spinach and Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory flavor that complements the mushrooms and spinach.
• Creamy Mushrooms and Spinach: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for a rich, creamy texture.
• Mushrooms and Spinach with Walnuts: Add toasted walnuts for a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the earthy mushrooms.

Freezing and Storage for Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze any leftovers. Place the sautéed mushrooms and spinach in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and heat gently in a skillet.
• Storage: Store leftover sautéed mushrooms and spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat for the best texture.

Special Equipment for Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

Here are some special equipment items that can make preparing your Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach easier:

• Large Skillet: A large skillet or sauté pan is ideal for cooking the mushrooms and spinach in one even layer.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean and even slicing of the mushrooms.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir and turn the mushrooms without damaging them.
• Lid (optional): A lid can help wilt the spinach faster by trapping the heat inside the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions for Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
   While fresh spinach works best for this recipe, you can use frozen spinach if needed. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in this dish.
2. Can I use other mushrooms besides button mushrooms?
   Yes, you can use cremini, portobello, shiitake, or any other mushrooms you prefer. Each will bring a different flavor and texture to the dish.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can sauté the mushrooms and spinach ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
5. Is this dish vegan?
   Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you skip the balsamic vinegar and avoid any non-vegan garnishes.

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Conclusion

Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach is the perfect side dish that combines the earthy richness of mushrooms with the freshness of spinach. It’s not only quick and healthy but also packed with flavor, making it a go-to option for almost any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty steak, grilled chicken, or just enjoying it on its own, this dish is sure to elevate your meal.

It’s simple to make and can easily be customized by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a gathering, or just a light, nutritious meal, this dish fits right in.

I’d love to see how your Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach turn out! Share a photo on social media and tag me—I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Happy cooking!