Creamed spinach recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

1. Blanch Fresh Spinach: If using fresh spinach, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spinach and blanch for 30 seconds to 1 minute until wilted. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Roughly chop the spinach. Skip this step if using frozen spinach.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

1. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Add Cream and Milk: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Season: Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Combine Spinach and Cream Sauce

1. Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the sauce, mixing well to ensure the spinach is evenly coated with the cream sauce. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained and squeezed of excess water before adding.
2. Add Parmesan: If using, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
3. Cook Until Heated Through: Continue to cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is heated through and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Serve

1. Taste for Seasoning: Give the creamed spinach a final taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
2. Serve Warm: Transfer the creamed spinach to a serving dish and serve warm as a side to your favorite main dishes.

Tips for Perfect Creamed Spinach

• Squeezing Spinach: Whether using fresh or frozen spinach, ensure it’s well-drained and squeezed of excess water to prevent the creamed spinach from becoming watery.
• Adjusting Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken up.
• Adding Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a nice depth of flavor, but you can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or sharp cheddar for different tastes.

Enjoy your homemade creamed spinach as a luxurious side that elevates any meal from simple to spectacular.