Flavor Boost from Garlic and Onions
The sweetness of sautéed onions balances the earthy flavor of spinach, while garlic infuses the dish with depth and aroma.
Quick and Easy
This recipe requires just one skillet and less than 15 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
Packed with Nutrition
Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A, C, and K, while onions add antioxidants and prebiotics.
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Garlic Sautéed Spinach with Onions Works
A bright, garlicky skillet of tender spinach and sweet onions—ready in 10 minutes! This healthy side pairs with anything from roast chicken to salmon. Make it tonight and rate the recipe to help others find it.
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound (450 g) fresh spinach (baby spinach preferred), rinsed and dried
¼–½ teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional)
Pinch red pepper flakes or 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
Wilt spinach: Add spinach in batches, tossing with tongs as it wilts. Cook 2–3 minutes until just tender and glossy; avoid overcooking.
Season & finish: Stir in salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve: Transfer to a warm plate. Finish with red pepper flakes or Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
Dry the spinach well after rinsing; excess water can make the dish watery.
Do not overcook. Pull it the moment leaves are wilted and glossy for vibrant color and best texture.
Flavor boosters: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest, a splash of white wine, or finish with butter for extra richness.
Add-ins: Toasted pine nuts, crisp bacon bits, or white beans turn this into a heartier side.
Make-ahead: Sauté onions/garlic up to 2 days ahead; reheat and wilt spinach to serve fresh.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Sauté
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Garlic Sautéed Spinach with Onions
Base Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh spinach | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Yellow onion | 1 large (sliced thin) |
| Garlic cloves | 4 (minced) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ tsp (optional) |
Optional Add-Ons
- Lemon juice for brightness
- Soy sauce for umami
- Parmesan or feta cheese for richness
- Toasted pine nuts for crunch
PART 3: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
- Wash spinach thoroughly, removing tough stems.
- Slice onion into thin strips and mince garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook 5–6 minutes, stirring, until soft and lightly golden.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
- Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Spinach
- Add spinach in batches, stirring until wilted.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat once spinach is tender but still vibrant green.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the top and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Results
Don’t Overcook Spinach
Cook just until wilted to preserve color and nutrients.
Use a Large Skillet
Spinach cooks down a lot—start with a large pan to avoid crowding.
Balance Flavors
Add acid (lemon or vinegar) to brighten the dish and cut through richness.
Variations
Mediterranean Style
Add crumbled feta, kalamata olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Asian-Inspired
Swap olive oil for sesame oil and season with soy sauce.
Creamy Spinach
Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer dish.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: High in iron, folate, vitamin C, and fiber.
- Onions: Contain antioxidants and compounds that support heart health.
- Garlic: Known for immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
This dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb, making it versatile for many diets.
Serving Ideas
As a Side Dish
- With roasted chicken
- Alongside steak
- With baked salmon
Mixed into Mains
- Toss with pasta and Parmesan.
- Add to omelets or frittatas.
- Stir into cooked rice or quinoa.
For more pairing ideas, check out our slow cooker dump dinners.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil. Avoid microwaving, which can overcook spinach.
Freezing
Not recommended—spinach becomes watery after freezing.
FAQs – Garlic Sautéed Spinach with Onions
PAA1: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but fresh spinach gives better texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain well before cooking.
PAA2: What onions work best?
Yellow or sweet onions caramelize beautifully. Red onions add a sharper flavor.
PAA3: Can I make this oil-free?
Yes, sauté onions in a splash of vegetable broth instead of oil.
PAA4: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes—adding a little cheese can make it more appealing for kids.
PAA5: Can I make it ahead?
You can sauté onions and prep garlic in advance, but cook spinach just before serving for freshness.
PAA6: How do I make it spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Conclusion
Quick, healthy, and packed with flavor, Garlic Sautéed Spinach with Onions is a side dish that deserves a spot in your regular rotation. With just a few ingredients, it transforms spinach into a savory, vibrant dish that complements any meal.