Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach

Looking for a quick and healthy side dish? Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the freshness of spinach. This dish is not only easy to make but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a savory, nutrient-packed dish ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe is quick to make, ready in just 15 minutes! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious side dish without a lot of fuss.

2. Healthy and Nutritious

Both mushrooms and spinach are low in calories but packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making this dish a healthy addition to any meal.

3. Customizable

You can adjust the seasonings to suit your tastes, or even add extra ingredients like balsamic vinegar or butter to enhance the flavors.

4. Versatile

This sautéed mushroom and spinach combo pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from grilled chicken to steak or pasta. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.

5. Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of ingredients, including fresh mushrooms, spinach, and garlic, this recipe is both affordable and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrients, try adding onions, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top for a cheesy touch.
• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken, tofu, or a poached egg on top.
• Herb Variations: Try different herbs like rosemary or oregano to create a different flavor profile.
• Vegan Option: Omit the butter and use a plant-based oil to make it vegan-friendly.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Clean and slice the mushrooms. Wash and chop the spinach.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will release moisture and begin to brown.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spinach

Once the mushrooms are browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts down.

Step 4: Season the Dish

Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. If you’re using dried or fresh thyme, add it now for extra flavor. Stir in 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, if desired, and continue cooking for an additional minute.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the sautéed mushrooms and spinach to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To ensure the mushrooms get a good sear and don’t steam, avoid overcrowding the skillet. If necessary, sauté the mushrooms in batches.
• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in this dish. Avoid using frozen spinach as it may release too much water and alter the texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, salt, and pepper according to your preferences.

How to Serve

Serve this dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, pasta, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any main course, adding depth of flavor and freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sautéed mushrooms and spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, use a skillet or microwave, but be mindful not to overcook the spinach.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container. However, the texture may change slightly once thawed.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of olive oil or butter to help bring back its original texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach?

While fresh spinach works best for this recipe, you can use frozen spinach if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

3. Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano will work well in place of thyme.

4. How can I make this dish vegan?

Omit the butter and use a plant-based oil like olive oil or coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.

6. Can I use a non-stick pan for this recipe?

Yes, a non-stick pan is perfect for sautéing mushrooms, as it helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup.

7. How do I prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy?

Make sure to sauté the mushrooms in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause them to release too much moisture and become soggy.

8. Can I use baby spinach instead of regular spinach?

Yes, baby spinach works wonderfully in this recipe, and it wilts down just like regular spinach.

9. How long will the leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover sautéed mushrooms with spinach will last for about 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

10. Can I add a protein to this dish?

Definitely! You can add cooked chicken, tofu, or even a poached egg for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach is a simple, quick, and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With minimal ingredients and a fast cooking time, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving it alongside a main course or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Print