Name: Catalan Spinach Sauté
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Catalan
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and trimmed; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup pine nuts; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Catalan Spinach Sauté

Hey there, foodies! So here’s a spread I’ve been knocking up in the kitchen; Catalan Spinach Sauté. The color palette of this dish brings those sunny Mediterranean feels direct to your dining room, which is kind of perfect for dinner on those busy nights when you still want something special. I mean, come on, life’s a jumble, who really has hours to spend in the kitchen? That’s why I adore this ‘throw it all together’ recipe. A handful of ingredients and you’ve got a savory side that not only rocks the taste buds but also feeds your people.

Why You’ll Love This Catalan Spinach Sauté

Catalan Spinach Sauté is all about esencity and flavor in every morsel. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, so it’s your superhero for the busy weeknights. With sautéed fresh spinach, garlic, and toasted pine nuts, it feeds your belly and brightens your evening as well. Easy to make and incredibly tasty to even shut the mouth of a picky eater – that’s how much you will love it!

Ingredients for Catalan Spinach Sauté

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in creating this delightful Catalan Spinach Sauté. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh spinach: The star of the show! Opt for vibrant, tender leaves for a nutritious and flavorful base.
Olive oil: This liquid gold adds richness and helps sauté the ingredients beautifully. Extra virgin is my go-to for its lovely flavor.
Garlic: Thinly sliced garlic brings an aromatic depth to the sauté. Make sure it’s fresh for the best taste!
Pine nuts: These little nuggets add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. You can find them in the baking aisle or at specialty stores.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors. Adjust to your taste preference!
Lemon juice: A splash of freshness! Lemon brightens the dish and balances the flavors perfectly.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat, these add a spicy kick. Feel free to customize according to your spice tolerance!

For exact measurements, you can find them at the bottom of this article, along with a handy printable version.

Catalan Spinach Sauté – Simple, Savory & Elegantly Mediterranean!

How to Make Catalan Spinach Sauté

Let’s dive into the cooking process! This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a tasty meal without the fuss. Follow these simple steps to create your Catalan Spinach Sauté.

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

First, grab a large skillet and pour in the olive oil. Turn the heat to medium and let the oil warm up for a minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers like liquid sunshine. Do you smell it? That’s the beginning of something delicious!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Next, add the thinly sliced garlic. Stir it carefully for about 1-2 minutes, just until it turns golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on it! Garlic can burn quickly and become bitter, ruining your dish. This step brings a lovely base flavor that your taste buds will adore.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

Now it’s time to amp up the crunch factor. Toss the pine nuts into the skillet with the garlic. Stir and toast them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. You’ll love the nutty aroma wafting through your kitchen. Just avoid leaving them unattended; they can go from toasty to burnt in a flash!

Step 4: Add the Spinach

With your garlic and pine nuts dancing together, it’s time to introduce the fresh spinach. Crank up the heat to medium-high and add the spinach all at once. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spinach wilts beautifully. It’s like watching a lush green wave transform before your eyes!

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, season your sauté with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for that kick, if you choose. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a burst of brightness. Give it all a gentle toss to mix everything together. Then, serve it warm as a vibrant side dish or a light main. Enjoy every flavor-packed bite!

Tips for Success

Use a large skillet to give the spinach room to wilt evenly.
Always keep an eye on your garlic; stirring prevents it from burning.
For extra flavor, toast the pine nuts slightly longer, but watch closely!
Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or nutmeg.
Leftovers? This sauté tastes great warm, cold, or mixed into a salad.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works wonders for sautéing.
Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pan.
Sharp knife: For slicing garlic and prepping spinach easily.
Cutting board: A must-have for a safe and tidy workspace.

Variations of Catalan Spinach Sauté

Add Cheese: Sprinkle some crumbled feta or grated Parmesan on top before serving for a creamy touch.
Include Other Greens: Mix in arugula or kale for added texture and nutrition.
Make it Vegan: Replace cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without animal products.
Protein Boost: Add sautéed chicken or chickpeas for a heartier dish that works well as a main course.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness and a burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Catalan Spinach Sauté

Pair with Grilled Meats: This sauté complements grilled chicken or fish beautifully, adding color to your plate.
Serve with Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and delicious vegetarian meal.
Enjoy with a Rosé: A chilled rosé wine enhances the Mediterranean vibes perfectly.
Garnish with Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest on top adds a beautiful touch.
Add a Side Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette balances the savory flavors beautifully.

FAQs about Catalan Spinach Sauté

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze the excess water out before sautéing. While the texture won’t be the same, it’ll still be delicious.

Is this Catalan Spinach Sauté suitable for meal prep? Yes! This dish holds up well in the fridge for about 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

What can I serve with Catalan Spinach Sauté? This sauté pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. The options are endless!

Are there any good substitutions for pine nuts? If pine nuts are hard to find, try using walnuts or slivered almonds. They’ll add the crunch you need!

Can I make this dish vegan? Yes! Simply omit any cheese or use a vegan alternative, and you’ll have a delightful, plant-based side dish to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Cooking this spinach sauté in the Catalan style is way beyond cooking; it’s culinary craft. The basic blend of newborn spinach, lemon nut, and lemon zest refreshes on just about the craziest evenings. I enjoy the way this dish turns mundane ingredients into an indulgent affair. Spin your cards on having to feed your stomach with food that will also feed your soul; do so with your loved ones while laughing over the flavors of this quick and tasty treat that makes “normal dinner” a tad bit exciting.