Best 20 Baby Spinach Recipes

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Baby spinach is a versatile leafy green that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. Its mild flavor and tender texture make it a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Baby spinach is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate.

The article presents three delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of baby spinach. The first recipe is for a simple and refreshing salad with baby spinach, strawberries, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. The second recipe is for a hearty and flavorful soup featuring baby spinach, red lentils, and coconut milk. The third recipe is for a flavorful pasta dish with baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and pine nuts.

Whether you're looking for a light and healthy salad, a hearty and comforting soup, or a flavorful pasta dish, these recipes are sure to please. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of baby spinach!

Here are our top 20 tried and tested recipes!

SAUTEED BABY SPINACH AND GARLIC



Sauteed Baby Spinach and Garlic image

Make and share this Sauteed Baby Spinach and Garlic recipe from Food.com.

Provided by Steve_G

Categories     Vegetable

Time 15m

Yield 3-4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 5

10 -12 ounces Baby Spinach, well cleaned and dried
4 -5 garlic cloves, sliced thin
1 -2 tablespoon olive oil
kosher salt
fresh grated nutmeg (optional)

Steps:

  • Heat oil In a large lidded sauce pan over a medium heat.
  • Add garlic and toss (or stir) until it just starts to turn color.
  • Remove from heat and IMMEDIATEY add spinach.
  • Toss with a set of tongs to coat the spinach with oil/garlic.
  • Salt to taste, some folks like it with a just a bit of fresh grated nutmeg.
  • Cover and let sit for a couple minutes, toss again and serve.
  • It should just be slightly warmed and retain it's crunch.

BALSAMIC CHICKEN WITH BABY SPINACH



Balsamic Chicken with Baby Spinach image

Provided by Ellie Krieger

Categories     main-dish

Time 18m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, chopped
2 (8-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved
8 ounces baby spinach
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup low-sodium canned chopped tomatoes with juice
2 cups whole wheat couscous, cooked

Steps:

  • Heat a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the chicken and cook about 4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove the chicken and set aside. To the same pan, add the spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside. Lower the heat to medium and add the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth to the pan and stir, scraping the bottom of the pan to remove any browned bits. Add the tomatoes, bring to a simmer and cook 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Place the couscous in a serving bowl. Top with the spinach, chicken and balsamic-tomato sauce.

SEARED SALMON ON BABY SPINACH



Seared Salmon on Baby Spinach image

Categories     Milk/Cream     Fish     Leafy Green     Low Carb     Quick & Easy     Salmon     Spinach     White Wine     Spring     Tarragon     Bon Appétit

Yield Serves 2; can be doubled

Number Of Ingredients 7

2 7-ounce skinless salmon fillets
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter
3 large shallots, sliced
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
3 ounces baby spinach leaves
1/3 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup whipping cream

Steps:

  • Sprinkle salmon with salt and pepper. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon; sauté until just opaque in center, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to plate.
  • Melt 1/2 tablespoon butter in same skillet. Add half of shallots and half of tarragon; sauté 30 seconds. Increase heat to high; add half of spinach and toss 30 seconds. Add remaining spinach; toss until wilted. Divide between plates.
  • Melt remaining 1/2 tablespoon butter in same skillet over medium-high heat. Add remaining shallots and tarragon; sauté 30 seconds. Add wine and cream and boil until sauce is thick enough to coat spoon, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Return salmon to skillet; simmer 1 minute. Arrange salmon with sauce atop spinach.

BABY SPINACH, PEAR AND WALNUT SALAD



Baby Spinach, Pear and Walnut Salad image

A refreshing and flavoursome salad which is visually appealing and complements any meat, rice or pasta dish. Adapted from a recipe in the latest issue of the Australian magazine 'New Idea'. When I posted this initially, I just listed "pears" in the ingredients, but have since located the pears specified, and I have made the salad with those pears: CORELLA PEARS. See notes below.

Provided by bluemoon downunder

Categories     Spinach

Time 25m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 pears, preferably Corella pears
60 g walnuts
200 g baby spinach leaves
6 chives, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup milk
1 sprig rosemary
25 g soft feta, crumbled
1/8 cup olive oil
salt, to taste
fresh ground pepper, to taste

Steps:

  • Place the honey and vinegar in a medium bowl and stir until well combined; cut the pears lenghtways into 1cm-thick pieces and toss in the honey mixture.
  • Cook the pears on a heated, oiled grill pan or BBQ hotplate on one side for 1 minute or until golden; remove and set aside to cool.
  • Toss the walnuts in the remaining honey and balsamic vinegar mixture, and cook on a heated oiled grill pan, turning frequently, for 2 minutes or until golden brown; set aside to cool.
  • FETA DRESSING: Place the milk and rosemary in a small saucepan and bring to the boil; remove and cool; discard the rosemary; place the feta in a medium bowl and gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time until it forms a smooth paste, whik in the oil and season to taste.
  • SERVING: Place the pears and walnuts in a large bowl, add the baby spinach leaves and chives, pour over the feta dressing, toss well and serve.
  • NOTES: Corella pears are named after the colourful Australian Corella parrot. They are a type of pear which was first developed by the German settlers who settled the Barossa Valley, in South Australia, in the 1840s. Corella pears are soft skinned, golden and red: really beautiful. As my mother said, they look as if they belong in a still life painting. They lose this colour when cooked, but they come out a beautiful golden brown, and they are so, so deliciously sweet. if you are familiar with Fuji apples, in taste and appearance, they are their cousins. I'm planning to make this salad next time with half Corella pears and half Fuji apples.

GRILLED CHICKEN WITH BRIE AND BABY SPINACH SALAD



Grilled Chicken with Brie and Baby Spinach Salad image

Provided by Robin Miller : Food Network

Categories     main-dish

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

Cooking spray
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, about 5 ounces each
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Salt-free garlic and herb seasoning
4 to 8 slices Brie cheese, about 1/2-inch thick
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 shallots, chopped
2 tablespoons vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
4 slices bacon, cooked

Steps:

  • Heat a stove-top grill pan or griddle with cooking spray and set over medium-high heat to preheat.
  • Season both sides of chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic and herb seasoning. Add chicken to hot pan and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat. Place 1 to 2 slices of Brie on top of chicken, cover with foil and place back on grill pan for another 1 minute, until cheese melts.
  • Meanwhile, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and chopped shallots to the pan and saute. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, honey and salt and pepper, to taste. Add the mixture to the skillet and stir to combine. Pour the warm vinaigrette over the spinach and toss to coat. Crumble the bacon strips over the dressed salad.
  • Transfer chicken to a serving plate or plate with spinach salad.

BUFFALO MEATLOAF WITH SPINACH AND ROASTED BABY POTATOES



Buffalo Meatloaf with Spinach and Roasted Baby Potatoes image

Provided by M. J. Adams

Categories     Herb     Mushroom     Onion     Potato     Roast     Buffalo     Spinach     Fall     Winter     Healthy     Bon Appétit

Yield Makes 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 pound baby Yukon Gold or Dutch yellow potatoes
5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 1/2 cups chopped crimini (baby bella) mushrooms
1 cup chopped red onion
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 pound ground buffalo meat
1 large egg
3/4 cup tomato sauce, divided
1/2 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)*
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
1 garlic clove, pressed
2 5-ounce bags fresh spinach

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon oil in medium bowl. Place on 13x9-inch rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Sprinkle with salt. Roast 20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in medium skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and onion; sauté until mushrooms are beginning to brown and onion is translucent, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat; mix in sage and thyme. Cool slightly.
  • Mix buffalo, mushroom mixture, egg, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, panko, salt, and pepper in large bowl. Push potatoes to sides of baking sheet; shape buffalo mixture into 6x3-inch loaf in center of sheet. Roast 30 minutes. Combine 1/4 cup tomato sauce and red pepper in small bowl. Pour over top of meatloaf. Roast 20 minutes longer. Remove from oven; let rest while preparing spinach.
  • Heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil and garlic in large pot over medium-high heat. Add spinach, and toss until wilted, about 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt. Slice meatloaf; serve potatoes and spinach alongside.
  • *Available in the Asian foods section of some supermarkets and at Asian markets.

GREEK-STYLE SHRIMP SALAD ON A BED OF BABY SPINACH



Greek-Style Shrimp Salad on a Bed of Baby Spinach image

Grilled shrimp and Greek flavorings (tomato, feta, Kalamata olives, oregano) commingle in a this salad. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, and so they'll grill up moist yet attractively spotty brown, sprinkle them with a little sugar when seasoning them with salt and pepper.

Provided by USA WEEKEND columnist Pam Anderson

Categories     Salad     Seafood Salad Recipes     Shrimp Salad Recipes

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 pound raw shrimp (26 to 30 count), peeled
Olive oil to taste
Salt and pepper to taste
Sugar to taste
2 medium tomatoes, cut into medium dice
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup pitted and coarsely chopped Kalamata or other black olives
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ cup olive oil
4 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 (10 ounce) package factory-washed baby spinach leaves

Steps:

  • Thread shrimp onto metal skewers (or bamboo ones that have been soaked in water for 15 minutes). Brush both sides with oil and season with salt, pepper and a light sprinkling of sugar.
  • Heat gas grill, with all burners on high, until fully preheated, 10 to 15 minutes. Use a wire brush to clean grill rack, then brush lightly with oil. Close lid and allow to return to temperature. Grill shrimp until fully cooked and spotty brown, about 2 minutes per side.
  • Meanwhile, mix in a medium bowl the tomatoes, cheese, olives, oregano, 2 Tbs. of the olive oil and 2 tsps. of the vinegar. Unthread shrimp and add to bowl. Lightly toss ingredients to coat. Set aside. (Can be made an hour or so ahead.)
  • When ready to serve, drizzle remaining oil, as well as a generous sprinkling of salt and pepper, over spinach in a large bowl. Toss to coat. Add remaining 2 tsps. vinegar; toss again. Divide spinach among 4 large plates. Top with a portion of the shrimp mixture.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 422.6 calories, Carbohydrate 12.6 g, Cholesterol 200.6 mg, Fat 28.2 g, Fiber 2.6 g, Protein 30.4 g, SaturatedFat 7.7 g, Sodium 853.4 mg, Sugar 6.3 g

BABY SPINACH SALAD WITH LEMON AND PARMESAN



Baby Spinach Salad With Lemon and Parmesan image

I love simple, yet delicious, recipes and this one qualifies for that description. This is perfect for spring and is an excellent recipe for low-carbers. Be sure to use very fresh baby spinach for this salad. I found this in the Chicago Trib's 'Good Eating' section and they give credit to "The Modern Vegetarian Kitchen" by Peter Berley and Melissa Clark.

Provided by Hey Jude

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 15m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, halved
6 ounces very fresh Baby Spinach
1 chunk parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon coarse salt (I used Kosher salt)
fresh ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Place the lemon juice in a small bowl; whisking constantly, slowly add the oil in a steady stream, whisking until the vinaigrette is creamy; set aside.
  • Rub the inside of a large bowl with the cut sides of the garlic halves; add the spinach; drizzle with the reserved lemon vinaigrette; toss gently to coat.
  • Divide the salad among 4 plates.
  • Shave the cheese in wide sheets over each salad with a vegetable peeler.
  • Season with salt and pepper and serve.

ROASTED TOFU WITH MUSHROOMS, SOY & GINGER ON BABY SPINACH



Roasted Tofu With Mushrooms, Soy & Ginger on Baby Spinach image

A healthy, vegetarian Bon Appetit recipe, originally from the book "The Skinny: How to Fit into Your Little Black Dress Forever" by Melissa Clark and Robin Aronson. The combination of mushrooms and soy sauce lends the tofu a hearty flavour.

Provided by blucoat

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 45m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

6 tablespoons soy sauce
6 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
2 -3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons honey or 2 1/2 tablespoons honey
2 1/2 tablespoons ginger, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 lb shiitake mushrooms or 3/4 lb button mushroom, wiped clean and stems removed
1 lb firm tofu, rinsed, patted dry, and sliced 1/2 inch thick
1 quart baby spinach leaves

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • In a bowl whisk together the soy sauce, vinegar, oil, honey, ginger, and garlic. Place the mushrooms in a bowl and add enough of the marinade to evenly coat them. Toss to combine.
  • Arrange the tofu in a single layer in a small baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the tofu.
  • Transfer the tofu to the oven and roast for 20 minutes. Spread the mushrooms out on one or two baking sheets and transfer to the oven. Continue roasting the tofu and the mushrooms until the tofu is nearly dry and well browned and the mushrooms are tender and golden, about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Arrange the spinach on serving plates. Drizzle with some of the remaining marinade from the tofu pan. Divide the tofu slices among the plates and top with some of the mushrooms. Serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 229.2, Fat 12.2, SaturatedFat 2, Sodium 1558.3, Carbohydrate 19.8, Fiber 4.6, Sugar 9.9, Protein 15.4

EASY EGGS FLORENTINE WITH BABY SPINACH AND GOAT CHEESE



Easy Eggs Florentine with Baby Spinach and Goat Cheese image

When you don't have time to whip up hollandaise and poach eggs -- make this shortcut version of eggs florentine.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Breakfast & Brunch Recipes

Time 25m

Number Of Ingredients 7

4 slices (1 inch thick) sourdough bread
3 tablespoons olive oil
Coarse salt and ground pepper
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 pound baby spinach
1/3 cup crumbled fresh goat cheese (3 ounces)
4 large eggs

Steps:

  • Heat broiler, with rack set 4 inches from heat. Place bread on a baking sheet, and brush both sides with 2 tablespoons oil. Season with salt and pepper. Broil until golden, 1 to 3 minutes per side; set aside.
  • In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 teaspoon oil over medium. Add scallions and as much spinach as will fit; season with salt and pepper. Cook until wilted, tossing and adding more spinach as room becomes available, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain off excess liquid; mix in goat cheese. Transfer to a bowl; cover to keep warm. Set aside.
  • Wipe out skillet; heat remaining 2 teaspoons oil over medium. Gently crack eggs into skillet; season with salt and pepper. Cook until whites are almost set, about 1 minute. Cover, and remove from heat; let stand until whites are set but yolks are still soft, about 3 minutes.
  • Top each piece of toast with spinach mixture and 1 egg; serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 452 g, Fat 21 g, Fiber 7 g, Protein 21 g

MISO SOUP WITH TOFU AND BABY SPINACH



Miso Soup With Tofu and Baby Spinach image

I normally use fresh shiitake for this, as this is a more delicate soup, but if you really wanted a meaty texture you could use rehydrated dried shiitake, as they are far chewier, just be sure to remove the stems.

Provided by drbecca26

Categories     Soy/Tofu

Time 25m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

6 cups water
1 1/2 cups baby spinach leaves, cut into thin strips
1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh shiitake mushroom
3 tablespoons minced scallions
1 tablespoon tamari
1/3 cup mellow white miso
4 ounces extra firm silken tofu, drained and cut into 1/4-inch dice

Steps:

  • Place the water in a large pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Add the spinach, mushrooms, scallions and tamari.
  • Reduce heat to medium and simmer until the vegetables soften , 3 to 6 minutes. Reduce heat to low.
  • Place about 1/4 cup of the hot soup mixture in a small bowl and add the miso, blending well.
  • Stir the mixture back into the soup, add the tofu and simmer for 2 minutes, being careful not to boil.
  • Taste, adjust the seasonings if needed, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 80, Fat 2.2, SaturatedFat 0.4, Sodium 1132.5, Carbohydrate 10.3, Fiber 2, Sugar 2.8, Protein 5.8

BABY SPINACH, AVOCADO, GRAPEFRUIT SALAD



Baby Spinach, Avocado, Grapefruit Salad image

This is a delicious, refreshing salad great for the summer. I love the ruby red grapefruits and this is just another way of using them. From Delicious Living magazine.

Provided by bbblampwork

Categories     Citrus

Time 20m

Yield 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 red grapefruits
6 cups about 5 ounces baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced into crescents
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola (optional)
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 cup canola oil or 1/2 cup grapeseed oil
2 teaspoons poppy seeds

Steps:

  • 1. To make dressing, mix together honey, vinegar, and mustard. Using a wisk, add oil in a slow stream and mix well. Stir in poppy seeds. This makes about a cup of dressing.
  • 2. Using a serrated knife, cut, and peel the membranes from grapefruit. Section fruit and throw away the membranes.
  • 3. Gently arrange spinach on individual plates. Top with sliced avocado and grapefruit sections. Drizzle 1 tablespoon dressing over each salad. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and gorgonzola, if desired.

BRUSSEL LEAF AND BABY SPINACH SAUTé



Brussel Leaf and Baby Spinach Sauté image

Provided by Sara Forte

Categories     Salad     Leafy Green     Side     Thanksgiving     Vegetarian     Fall     Vegan     Brussels Sprout     Pescatarian     Paleo     Dairy Free     Wheat/Gluten-Free     Peanut Free     Soy Free     Kosher

Yield Serves 4

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 pound brussels sprouts
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon white wine or champagne vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
4 cups baby spinach
2 generous pinches of sea salt
1/2 cup Marcona almonds

Steps:

  • Working with one brussels sprout at a time, peel each individual leaf, starting from the outside and working toward the middle. Continue to peel until you get to the tough core where it is just too tight to pull any more leaves. Discard the core and put the leaves in a big bowl. Repeat with the remaining brussels sprouts.
  • Over medium heat, warm the olive oil in a large frying pan. Add all of the brussels leaves and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add the vinegar and maple syrup and toss to coat. Add the spinach to the pan and toss until it is just barely wilted. It is better just slightly underdone in this case, as it will continue to cook in its own heat.
  • Sprinkle with the salt and Marcona almonds and serve immediately.

BABY SPINACH SALAD WITH STILTON "CAESAR" DRESSING



Baby Spinach Salad with Stilton

Provided by Food Network

Time 15m

Number Of Ingredients 17

1/2 cup anchovies
1/2 cup capers
1/2 tablespoon dry mustard
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 tablespoon chopped garlic and shallots
1/2 tablespoon hot sauce
1/2 tablespoon Worchestershire sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1/2 cup crumbled Stilton cheese
4 egg yolks*
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (for tuiles)
1/2 cup Stilton "Caesar" Dressing (recipe above)
1 pound baby spinach
1/2 cup crumbled Stilton blue cheese

Steps:

  • Combine the first 9 ingredients in the food processor until well mixed. Separately combine the egg yolks, vinegar, and lemon juice. Add to mixture in food processor. While processing slowly add oils until incorporated. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • For the Salad: To make the tuiles, sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on a non-stick pan in a ring mold and cook it slowly on top of the stove or on a non-stick pan in a preheated low oven about 280 degrees until dry. Lightly toss the baby spinach in a bowl with the dressing. Stack the spinach salad on individual plates, laying a tuile halfway up and on top of the salad. Place the crumbled Stilton around the spinach.

SHRIMP RISOTTO WITH BABY SPINACH AND BASIL



Shrimp Risotto with Baby Spinach and Basil image

Categories     Onion     Rice     Appetizer     Sauté     Parmesan     Basil     Shrimp     Spinach     White Wine     Simmer     Bon Appétit     Sugar Conscious     Wheat/Gluten-Free     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free

Yield Makes 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

6 cups (about) low-salt chicken broth
1 pound uncooked large shrimp, peeled, deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
2 large garlic cloves, minced
11/2 cups arborio rice or medium-grain white rice (about 9 1/2 ounces)
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 6-ounce package baby spinach leaves
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Additional grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Bring 6 cups broth to simmer in medium saucepan. Add shrimp. Turn off heat, cover, and let stand until shrimp are just opaque in center, about 3 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer shrimp to small bowl; cover with foil to keep warm. Cover broth to keep warm.
  • Heat oil in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir 1 minute. Add rice and stir until edge of rice is translucent but center is still opaque, about 2 minutes. Add wine and cook until wine is absorbed, stirring occasionally, about 2 minutes. Add 3/4 cup chicken broth. Simmer until almost all broth is absorbed, stirring often, about 2 minutes. Continue to add broth, 3/4 cup at a time, until rice is just tender and mixture is creamy, stirring often and allowing almost all broth to be absorbed after each addition, about 25 minutes total. During last 5 minutes, add spinach in 4 batches, stirring and allowing spinach to wilt after each addition. Mix in shrimp, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, and basil. Season risotto to taste with salt and pepper. Spoon risotto into shallow bowls and serve, passing additional cheese separately.

BABY SPINACH SALAD WITH THYME AND DIJON VINAIGRETTE WITH CRISP SWISS CHEESE CRISPS



Baby Spinach Salad with Thyme and Dijon Vinaigrette with Crisp Swiss Cheese Crisps image

Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network

Categories     appetizer

Time 20m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
1 sack, 12 ounces, baby spinach or 3/4 pound from bulk bins
1 small red apple, cored and thinly sliced
1 wedge lemon
3 or 4 sprigs fresh thyme, stripped from stems and chopped
1 rounded teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, eyeball it
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, eyeball the amount

Steps:

  • Heat a nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Add shredded Swiss in small, 2-inch piles to the hot skillet. When the cheese fries to a light golden color at the edges, about 1 minute, and can be moved with a thin spatula, turn the cheese rounds, cook another 15 seconds, then remove rounds from the skillet and transfer rounds to a work surface to cool. The cheese crisps will cool within a minute or so. Repeat to form 12 to 16 crisps, 3 or 4 per salad. Crisps may also be flavored with cracked black pepper and chopped thyme or other herbs.
  • Place spinach in a bowl. After slicing your apple, squeeze a wedge of lemon over the slices to keep them from browning. Toss apples with spinach. For dressing, combine thyme, Dijon mustard and vinegar with a whisk. Stream in olive oil while continuing to whisk dressing. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat greens and apple evenly. Pile salad onto cheese roundss and serve.

BABY SPINACH SALAD



Baby Spinach Salad image

Provided by Robin Miller : Food Network

Categories     appetizer

Time 5m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 4

6 cups baby spinach leaves
1 can mandarin oranges, drained
2 tablespoons sliced almonds
4 tablespoons bottled sweet Vidalia onion dressing (recommended: Newman's Own) or any vinaigrette dressing

Steps:

  • Place baby spinach in a large bowl and top with mandarin oranges and slivered almonds. Toss baby spinach salad with bottled dressing.

BABY SPINACH WITH ALMONDS AND GOLDEN RAISINS



Baby Spinach with Almonds and Golden Raisins image

Yes, both bacon and butter can be part of healthy recipes! We use just a small amount of each in this low-calorie Spanish-inspired side dish, saving the butter for the very end so it has more impact.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     side-dish

Time 35m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 tablespoons sliced almonds
2 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 small shallot, chopped
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 1/2 pounds baby spinach leaves
1/4 teaspoon Spanish smoked sweet paprika
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup golden raisins
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the almonds out on a rimmed baking sheet and toast until light brown and fragrant, about 8 minutes. Set aside.
  • Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon to a small bowl, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
  • Return the skillet to medium heat, add the shallots and 1 tablespoon water and cook, stirring, until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the vinegar and cook until it is reduced and the shallots are glazed, about 3 minutes more. Add the spinach in batches, stirring to wilt before adding more. When all the spinach has been added, raise the heat to high, add the paprika, red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper and cook, covered, for 2 minutes. Remove the lid, stir in the raisins, toasted almonds, reserved bacon and butter and serve.

CRUNCHY PORK CHOPS WITH BABY SPINACH SALAD



Crunchy Pork Chops With Baby Spinach Salad image

Provided by Nigella Lawson

Categories     dinner, easy, quick, one pot, main course

Time 20m

Yield 2 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

2 8-ounce pork chops, with bone, trimmed of fat
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup fine dry bread crumbs
1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan
10 ounces (about 3) medium tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
1/2 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup peanut oil, for frying
4 ounces (about 4 cups) baby spinach leaves, washed and dried

Steps:

  • Place the chops between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a mallet or rolling pin, beat around the bone, turning once, until the meaty part of the chop is half as thick.
  • In a wide, shallow bowl, combine the egg, mustard, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Beat with a fork until blended. In another wide, shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs with Parmesan. Press each chop into the egg mixture, coating each side. Then dip each into the bread crumbs, covering them evenly. Set aside on a rack or plate.
  • In a large bowl, combine the tomato, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir to blend; set aside.
  • Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peanut oil, and heat just until a bread crumb sizzles when dropped into the oil; do not overheat. Add the chops. Cook, turning once, until deep golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes a side.
  • Transfer the chops to two plates. Toss the spinach in the tomato mixture until it is well coated, and place equal portions of salad over each crispy chop.

BABY SPINACH WITH BEETS AND GOAT CHEESE



Baby Spinach with Beets and Goat Cheese image

Categories     Salad     Cheese     Bake     Steam     Goat Cheese     Spinach     Beet     Simmer     Boil

Yield makes 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 4

1 5-ounce bag baby spinach
2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinaigrette (page 159) or to taste
1 bunch of beets, roasted or boiled (see box), peeled and thinly sliced
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese

Steps:

  • Place the baby spinach in a salad bowl. Add the balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently until well coated.
  • Divide the spinach among 4 shallow bowls or salad plates. Top with the beet slices and sprinkle over the crumbled goat cheese. Serve.
  • Cooking Beets
  • To prepare the beets, trim all but about 1 inch of the stems. Rinse thoroughly under cold, running water.
  • To boil beets, bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add the beets and return the water to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the beets are tender when pierced with a thin, sharp knife, about 20 minutes for small beets, about 30 minutes for medium beets, and 45 minutes to 1 hour for large beets. Drain the beets and transfer them to a bowl of ice water until cool enough to handle.
  • To bake beets, preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the beets in a small roasting pan and add 1/2 cup of water. Seal the pan tightly with foil and bake until the beets are tender when pierced with a thin, sharp knife, about 45 minutes for small beets, about 1 hour for medium beets, and about 1 1/4 hours for large beets (be careful when lifting the foil; don't get burned by the escaping hot steam). Remove the beets from the pan and let stand. When the beets are cool enough to handle, use a paring knife to trim the ends and slip off their skins. Serve warm, at room temperature, or cold.
  • from aunt elsa's kitchen
  • Beets retain better flavor when they are boiled or baked with their skins on, but peeling them after cooking can transfer all that beautiful color right to your hands, where it doesn't look so nice. Wear kitchen gloves when peeling and chopping beets.

Tips:

  • Select the freshest baby spinach: Look for leaves that are deep green and crisp, without any signs of wilting or yellowing.
  • Wash baby spinach thoroughly: Rinse the leaves in cold water several times to remove any dirt or debris.
  • Dry baby spinach properly: Use a salad spinner or pat the leaves dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess water.
  • Store baby spinach correctly: Keep the leaves in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Use baby spinach in a variety of dishes: Add it to salads, sandwiches, wraps, pasta dishes, soups, stews, and more.

Conclusion:

Baby spinach is a versatile and nutritious leafy green that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. With its mild flavor and tender texture, it's a great addition to salads, sandwiches, wraps, pasta dishes, soups, stews, and more. Be sure to select fresh, crisp leaves, wash them thoroughly, and dry them properly before using. By following these tips, you can enjoy all the benefits that baby spinach has to offer.

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