Name: Simple and Flavorful Sautéed Baby Spinach
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 10 oz baby spinach (pre-washed preferred); 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tsp fresh lemon juice or a splash of vinegar (optional); Optional add-ins: pinch of red pepper flakes, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan, 1 tbsp toasted pine nuts, balsamic glaze

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This simple and flavorful sautéed baby spinach is one of my favorite ways to get greens on the table in just minutes. Lightly cooked with garlic and olive oil, it’s tender, vibrant, and packed with nutrients. I love how quick and easy it is—perfect for busy weeknights or when I need a healthy side to balance a heavier main dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, delicious, and lets the natural flavor of the spinach shine. A quick sauté transforms the spinach into a silky, savory side dish without making it soggy. I keep the seasoning simple, but the flavor is rich thanks to the garlic and a splash of lemon or vinegar. It goes with almost anything and is an effortless way to add greens to any meal. Simple and Flavorful Sautéed Baby Spinach

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Baby spinach (fresh, pre-washed if possible)
Olive oil
Garlic, thinly sliced or minced
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh lemon juice or a splash of vinegar (optional)

Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I add the garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant (without browning).
I add the baby spinach in batches, stirring gently until it wilts down. It looks like a lot at first, but it cooks down quickly.
Once all the spinach is wilted, I season it with salt and pepper to taste.
I remove it from the heat and squeeze a little lemon juice over the top for brightness.
I serve it warm as a side or use it as a base for bowls, grains, or even pasta.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2–3 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add red pepper flakes for a little heat or finish it with grated Parmesan for a more savory version. For extra texture, I’ve stirred in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds. If I’m serving it with pasta, I’ll toss in a splash of pasta water and a handful of cooked noodles right in the pan. I’ve also used a mix of baby greens like arugula and chard with good results.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of water or oil. I avoid microwaving it too long since it can get overly soft. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but still tastes great the next day stirred into eggs or soups. Simple and Flavorful Sautéed Baby Spinach

FAQs

Can I use regular spinach instead of baby spinach?

Yes, I’ve used regular spinach—just remove the thicker stems and chop it roughly before cooking.

Why does the spinach shrink so much?

That’s totally normal. Spinach is mostly water, so it cooks down significantly. I usually start with more than I think I’ll need.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but I prefer it freshly sautéed. If I prep it ahead, I just warm it gently in a pan before serving.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, as long as I skip any cheese add-ins, it’s completely vegan and naturally gluten-free too.

What can I serve this with?

I pair it with grilled chicken, fish, pasta, rice bowls, or even serve it on toast with a fried egg. It’s incredibly versatile.

Conclusion

This simple and flavorful sautéed baby spinach is one of those go-to side dishes I never get tired of. It’s quick, healthy, and easy to adapt to whatever I’m cooking. Whether I’m serving it alongside dinner or using it as a base for bowls, this spinach always brings vibrant color and nutrition to the plate with very little effort.