Spinach

Spinacia oleracea Vegetable, Leafy Green

Spinach Vegetable, Leafy Green

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable, Leafy Green

The Forktionary Angle

"The ultimate adaptable green, shrinking dramatically but delivering huge nutritional value."

Definition

A leafy green vegetable celebrated for its mild, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture. It's highly nutritious and versatile in raw or cooked forms.

Nutritional Powerhouse Excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron.
Oxalic Acid Contains oxalic acid, which can be reduced by cooking to improve mineral absorption.
Volume Reduction Cooks down significantly; 10-12 cups fresh spinach yields 1 cup cooked.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Spinach are:

Mild Earthy Slightly Sweet Umami (when cooked)

Chef’s Secret

To avoid watery cooked spinach, wash thoroughly but don't dry completely; the clinging water helps steam it, then squeeze excess liquid out aggressively before serving or adding to dishes.

Best Substitutes

Swiss Chard

slightly more bitter
Ratio 1:1

Kale

needs longer cooking
Ratio 1:1

Arugula

peppery, raw
Ratio 1:1

Mustard Greens

peppery, cooked
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose vibrant green, crisp leaves without yellowing or sliminess.

Recipes Using Spinach

Time To Make Vegetarian Spreads Dietary

Arugula Pesto

Tired of the same old basil pesto? This vibrant arugula pesto offers a peppery, nutty alternative that's perfect for pasta, pizza, sandwiches, or as a dip for crusty bread. Experience a burst of fresh, zesty flavor that will elevate any dish!

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Small Appliance Food Processor Blender For 1 Or 2 Healthy 2

Lemony's Ugly But Awesome Spinach Smoothie

This vibrant green smoothie isn't the prettiest, but its incredible flavor and health benefits will blow you away! Packed with spinach, Granny Smith apple, and a zesty lemon kick, this recipe is a delicious way to boost your daily dose of vitamins. Perfect for a quick breakfast, healthy snack, or even fun green popsicles for the kids! Easily customizable with your favorite greens and sweeteners.

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Vegetables 3 Steps Or Less Course Dietary

Barley Florentine

Cozy up with this hearty and flavorful Barley Florentine! Perfect for a chilly winter evening, this recipe features tender barley, spinach, and creamy parmesan cheese. A touch of onion powder adds depth without overwhelming the delicate flavors. Serve with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal. Get the recipe now!

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Vegetables Low Calorie Time To Make Cuisine

Ancient Egyptian Melokhia Soup

Transport your taste buds to ancient Egypt with this richly flavorful Melokhia soup! This authentic recipe, passed down through generations, features tender jute leaves simmered in a fragrant broth of herbs and spices. A surprisingly easy weeknight meal, this creamy and satisfying soup is perfect for a cozy evening or a unique culinary adventure. Discover the secrets of this ancient Egyptian delicacy!

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Inexpensive Preparation Mushrooms Dietary

Breadless Portabella Mushroom Pizzas Stove Top

Indulge in these decadent, individual portabella mushroom pizzas – a guilt-free delight! Skip the carb-heavy crust and enjoy a rich, meaty mushroom base topped with your favorite pizza fixings. This stovetop recipe is incredibly easy, taking just 20 minutes to prepare a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a low-carb, vegetarian, or keto diet, these pizzas are surprisingly satisfying and bursting with flavor. Say goodbye to mushy mushrooms – our technique delivers a tender, meat-like texture that even mushroom skeptics will love! Great as an appetizer or a light main course.

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Low Carb Greek Dinner Party Holiday Event

Athenian Cheese Spread

This creamy, dreamy Athenian Cheese Spread is a guaranteed party hit! Inspired by a recipe from a twin mom's meeting, this flavorful dip is easy to make and even easier to devour. Layers of creamy feta and cream cheese, vibrant red peppers, and spinach create a stunning appetizer perfect for your next gathering. Serve with crackers or toasted French bread for a taste of Greece!

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5 Ingredients Or Less Weeknight Dietary Time To Make

Banana Berry Blast Green Smoothie

Fuel your day with our vibrant Banana Berry Blast Green Smoothie! This refreshing recipe (makes 4-5 servings) is packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. We use frozen fruit for the perfect chilled consistency, but feel free to adjust to your liking. Half the recipe easily for a single serving. Get ready for a delicious and healthy treat in just 10 minutes!

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Vegetables Vegetables Pasta Occasion

Angel Hair With Tomatoes Spinach Pine Nuts

Transform garden-fresh tomatoes and spinach into a restaurant-worthy pasta dish! This vibrant angel hair pasta recipe is bursting with flavor from sweet roasted tomatoes, earthy spinach, and crunchy toasted pine nuts. A simple yet elegant weeknight meal that's ready in under 40 minutes. Get ready to impress yourself and your dinner guests!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Casseroles Preparation

Beef Florentine

A decadent Beef Florentine casserole, boasting a rich beef sauce, creamy spinach and cheese filling, and a flaky phyllo crust. This recipe elevates classic comfort food to new heights, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable dish!

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Time To Make Beginner Cook Pasta Rice And Grains 30 Minutes Or Less

Beans Bow Ties Spinach Cheese

A quick and easy 30-minute weeknight meal! This cheesy pasta dish combines hearty great northern beans, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked bow tie pasta for a satisfying and flavorful experience. Inspired by a Westbrae Natural Organic recipe, this elevated version is bursting with fresh flavors and simple elegance.

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Stove Top Occasion Lactose Kosher

Baked Fish With Spinach

This easy and delicious baked fish recipe with spinach is a complete meal when served with rice. Featuring flaky seabass (or your favorite fish!), this recipe is bursting with fresh flavors from sauteed mushrooms, dill, and a zesty lemon-butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

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Meat Pork Preparation Stove Top

Bacon Tomato Spinach Salad

Crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh spinach tossed in a warm, savory dressing! This vibrant salad is ready in 10 minutes and is the perfect light yet satisfying meal or side dish. Get the recipe now!

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5 Ingredients Or Less Easy Course Seafood

Baked Salmon With Tomatoes Spinach And Mushrooms

This healthy and delicious baked salmon recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner! Packed with flavor from juicy tomatoes, tender spinach, and earthy mushrooms, this low-carb meal is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner, this recipe is adaptable – substitute red snapper or orange roughy for the salmon if desired. Inspired by a classic Kraft recipe!

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Low In Something Eggs Dairy Low In Something Breakfast

Baked Eggs With Green Chilies

Spice up your breakfast, lunch, or dinner with this incredibly easy and customizable Baked Eggs with Green Chilies recipe! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend brunch. Imagine tender eggs baked to perfection, infused with the savory heat of green chilies, and melted cheese. Easily doubled for a crowd, you can experiment with different cheeses, veggies, and spices to create your own signature dish. Try adding spinach, sundried tomatoes, and cheddar with a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick! Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Sandwiches Snacks To Go Lunch

Artichoke And Basil Hero Sandwich

Elevate your game day spread with this incredible Artichoke & Basil Hero Sandwich! This show-stopping sandwich is perfect for football Sundays or any gathering. A vibrant basil-parmesan mixture (made 8-24 hours ahead) adds incredible flavor to marinated artichoke hearts, creamy provolone, juicy tomato, and fresh spinach, all nestled in a perfectly toasted hero roll. Feel free to add your favorite Italian cold cuts for extra protein. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Picnic Easy 3 Steps Or Less Sandwiches

Vegan Vegetarian Mock Tuna

Craving a classic tuna salad sandwich but plant-based? This recipe recreates the nostalgic flavor of a beloved Connecticut-style mock tuna, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or light meal. Made with crunchy almonds and creamy cashews, this vegan delight is bursting with savory flavor and requires just 10 minutes of prep time! Enjoy it on toasted wheat bread with sweet pickles, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, or your favorite sandwich fixings.

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