| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 145 | 11g | 1.5g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 2g | 3g | 0.2g |
One of the first dishes that truly captured both my California upbringing and Gujarati roots was the humble, yet flavor-packed Sauteed New Zealand Spinach with Garlic. The vibrant, crisp green of the spinach was at home in my West Coast kitchen, while the simple yet aromatic saute of garlic in olive oil had whispers of my Indian heritage. This delightful amalgamation, unmistakably green and unmistakably fusion, is precisely why I love this recipe.
A Dish of Cultural Fusion
Fresh West Coast ingredients married with the rich, warm flavors of my Gujarati heritage find a perfect balance in this sauteed New Zealand spinach dish. The hint of lemon and the garlic’s warm embrace enhance spinach’s mild taste. The optional addition of dried cranberries and sliced almonds bring in textural delights and a subtle sweetness, harmonizing further with the dual influences of my culinary journey.
The Healthful Charm
This dish is not just a treaties for the taste buds, but also nutrition-packed. There’s no skimping on health benefits with spinach, abundant in vitamins A, C and K, along with iron, fiber and calcium. Add to that the heart-healthy olive oil, antioxidant-rich garlic, and the optional almonds which are a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and you’ve got not just a meal, but a healthful feast!
Perfect Pairings & Drawn Comparisons
Sauteed New Zealand Spinach with Garlic can hold its ground as a standalone dish or it pairs perfectly with a tasteful grain, like basmati rice or a slice of fresh baked sourdough. This healthy saute will also compliment a plate of grilled chicken, tofu or fish. A similar dish is the classic Sauteed Spinach with Garlic, where traditional spinach is used instead. However, New Zealand spinach brings an inherently mild and unique flavor, which sets this recipe apart.
At the end of the day, my love for this recipe remains undiminished. From its cultural echoes to its healthful charm and flexibility in pairings, Sauteed New Zealand Spinach with Garlic is an embodiment of the fusion cuisine I adore and champion. Enjoy this little piece of my California and Indian inspired journey at your dinner table.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound New Zealand spinach, washed and chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Step Two
Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pan and sauté until golden brown. Keep an eye on the garlic to ensure it doesn’t burn.
Step Three
Add the 1 pound of washed and chopped New Zealand spinach to the pan. Stir well to ensure the spinach is evenly coated in the garlic infused olive oil.
Step Four
Season the spinach with 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Step Five
Continue to sauté the spinach until it is wilted and tender. This should take around 5-10 minutes.
Step Six
Once the spinach is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the spinach. Stir well to incorporate the lemon juice.
Step Seven
Finally, if desired, sprinkle 1/2 cup of sliced almonds and/or 1/2 cup of dried cranberries over the spinach before serving. This will add a nice crunch and a touch of sweetness to the dish. Enjoy your Sauteed New Zealand Spinach with Garlic!
