Are you tired of boring, bland vegetable sides that put everyone to sleep? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner table with this mouthwatering Wilted Spinach with Raisins and Pine Nuts recipe! In just 15 minutes, you'll transform simple spinach into a gourmet masterpiece that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. This vegetarian delight combines the earthy richness of toasted pine nuts, the sweet surprise of plump raisins, and perfectly wilted spinach that's bursting with flavor and nutrition.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add olive oil, allowing it to warm for about 30 seconds.
- Add pine nuts to the pan and toast them gently, stirring constantly, until they turn golden brown and become fragrant (approximately 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn them.
- Remove the toasted pine nuts from the pan and set them aside on a small plate.
- In the same pan, add the raisins and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing them to slightly plump and become warm.
- Add fresh spinach to the pan, tossing quickly with tongs to ensure even cooking and wilting.
- Cook spinach for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until leaves are just wilted but still maintain a bright green color.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the spinach, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Return toasted pine nuts to the pan and gently toss with the wilted spinach to distribute evenly.
- Transfer the spinach mixture to a serving plate immediately to prevent overcooking.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light vegetarian accompaniment.
Tips
- Use Fresh Spinach: Always choose crisp, vibrant green spinach leaves for the best texture and flavor.
- Watch Your Pine Nuts: Toast them carefully - they can burn quickly! Golden brown is perfect, burnt is bitter.
- High Heat, Quick Cooking: The key to perfectly wilted spinach is high heat and minimal cooking time to preserve color and nutrients.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in small amounts, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, to maintain its fresh texture and temperature.
- Optional Variations: Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
