Spinach with Butter and Parmesan

This buttery spinach with Parmesan is a quick Italian-style side dish made with fresh spinach, garlic, butter, and aged cheese. Ready in minutes, this easy sautéed spinach recipe pairs well with chicken, steak, or fish and works as a low-carb, gluten-free vegetable side for weeknight meals and simple dinners.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, lightly smashed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 450 g (1 lb) baby spinach, or fresh spinach washed with large stems removed
• 30–60 g (1–2 oz) high-quality Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano or Grana Padano), finely grated

Instructions

1. Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt gently.
2. Add the smashed garlic cloves, season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
3. Add the spinach to the pan and toss gently until just wilted. This will happen very quickly.
4. Sprinkle a little more than half of the grated Parmesan over the spinach and toss again to coat evenly.
5. Remove the pan from the heat to avoid overcooking. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the spinach along with the buttery juices to a serving dish and finish with the remaining Parmesan. Serve immediately.

---

Tips

• Use a wide pan so the spinach wilts evenly and doesn’t steam.
• Remove the garlic cloves before serving if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Add the cheese off the heat to keep it silky, not clumpy.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap butter for olive oil or a mix of both.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw and squeeze it very dry before cooking.

How do I keep spinach from getting watery?
Cook it quickly over medium heat and remove it as soon as it wilts.

Can this be made ahead?
It’s best served immediately, but leftovers can be reheated gently.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Spoon over toast or fold into omelets and pasta dishes.
• Pair with roasted potatoes or rice for a simple meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in minutes with simple ingredients
• Rich, savory flavor from butter and Parmesan
• Light yet satisfying side dish
• Works for everyday meals or special occasions