I absolutely love this recipe because it transforms simple spinach into a mouthwatering, crispy delight with just a few ingredients—plus, it’s super quick and easy to make after a long workday. The hint of garlic and optional kick from the red pepper flakes make it feel gourmet, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness that I can’t resist!
I love how nutritious and easy roasted spinach is to prepare. Begging for the simplest of ingredient lists, this dish requires only fresh spinach; olive oil; and garlic, salt, and black pepper (add lemon juice, if desired, for a refreshing, zesty finish).
Roasting the spinach enhances its flavor and amps up its already considerable health benefits. (Thanks to its high levels of folate, calcium, and iron, spinach is among the most nutritious greens you can eat.)
Ingredients
Spinach: Fresh.
Enriched with iron plus vitamins A and C.
Olive Oil: Offers excellent fatty acids and antioxidants.
Garlic: Provides flavorful aroma and flavor; supplies allicin.
Lemon Juice: Provides a zesty, delightful flavor, and is an excellent source of vitamin C.
Crushed Red Pepper: Provides heat, stimulates metabolism.
Ingredient Quantities
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to heat up.
2. To line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Place the cleaned and dried spinach in a big bowl.
4. Pour the olive oil over the spinach and toss to coat evenly.
5. Combine the spinach with the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is uniform.
6. Spread the mixture of spinach evenly on the baking tray.
7. If you want a little more heat, add the red pepper flakes to the spinach.
8. Preheat the oven. Roast for 8-10 minutes. The spinach should be wilted and slightly crispy on the edges.
9. Take out of the oven and move to a plate for serving.
10. If desired, squeeze lemon juice over it just before serving to brighten the dish. Enjoy!
Equipment Needed
1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Large bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Spoon or spatula for tossing
9. Plate for serving
FAQ
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?Frozen spinach can be used, but it must be thawed and drained thoroughly to ensure that moisture does not accumulate when the spinach is roasted.
- How do I prevent the spinach from getting too wilted?Briefly roast the spinach at a high temperature, then take it out of the oven as soon as it begins to wilt to keep some texture.
- Can I add other spices?Certainly! You can try spices like paprika or cumin to make the flavor your own.
- Is lemon juice necessary?Lemon juice can definitely enhance the flavor of spinach and make it bright, but it is not necessary. So, go ahead and try the recipe without it to save your next brunch from the threat of an overripe lemon.
- Can I omit the red pepper flakes?The red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted if you’d like a milder dish. Yes, that is the truth!
- What should I serve with roasted spinach?Spinach that has been roasted forms good flavor pairings with grilled chicken, fish, or as a topping for grains, pasta, or even pizzas.
- How should I store leftovers?Any leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eaten within 2 to 3 days. They may be reheated to warmth, but take care not to overheat or they will be overcooked.
Substitutions and Variations
Olive oil: For a different flavor profile, substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil.
Garlic: If you don’t have fresh garlic, use garlic powder or shallots.
Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt may be used as substitutes.
Black pepper: White pepper or ground cayenne pepper can be used for a spicier kick.
Lemon juice: You can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to add acidity.
Pro Tips
1. Dry Thoroughly Ensure the spinach is completely dry after washing, as any excess moisture can prevent it from getting crispy during roasting.
2. Uniform Garlic Distribution Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press. This ensures it distributes evenly across the spinach for consistent flavor.
3. Layering Technique Spread the spinach in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid overcrowding, which helps it crisp up rather than steam.
4. Adjusting Baking Time Keep a close eye on the spinach during the last few minutes of roasting, as it can quickly go from perfectly crispy to overdone. Every oven varies slightly in temperature.
5. Lemon Juice Timing Add the lemon juice just before serving to maximize its fresh, tangy flavor without making the spinach soggy.
Roasted Spinach Recipe
My favorite Roasted Spinach Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Large bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Spoon or spatula for tossing
9. Plate for serving
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to heat up.
2. To line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Place the cleaned and dried spinach in a big bowl.
4. Pour the olive oil over the spinach and toss to coat evenly.
5. Combine the spinach with the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is uniform.
6. Spread the mixture of spinach evenly on the baking tray.
7. If you want a little more heat, add the red pepper flakes to the spinach.
8. Preheat the oven. Roast for 8-10 minutes. The spinach should be wilted and slightly crispy on the edges.
9. Take out of the oven and move to a plate for serving.
10. If desired, squeeze lemon juice over it just before serving to brighten the dish. Enjoy!
