Best 2 Catalan Spinach Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

Catalan spinach, a traditional Spanish dish originating from the Catalonia region of Spain, is a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian delight. This dish is made with fresh spinach, sautéed with garlic, pine nuts, and raisins, and enhanced with a special dressing made from sherry vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of pimentón (Spanish smoked paprika). The result is a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, the article provides a comprehensive guide to creating this classic dish. With variations including a vegan version, a recipe for spinach with chickpeas, and even a unique empanada stuffed with spinach and pine nuts, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to embark on a delicious adventure as we explore the culinary secrets of Catalan spinach.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

ESPINACA A LA CATALAN (CATALAN-STYLE SPINACH)



Espinaca a La Catalan (Catalan-Style Spinach) image

A spinach side dish from the Catalan region in Spain. Strong Moorish influences! Whatever you do, DO NOT overcook the spinach! From Jose Andres Tapas: A Taste of Spain in America. Love Jose's recipes!

Provided by COOKGIRl

Categories     Spinach

Time 15m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 tablespoons spanish extra virgin olive oil
1 gravenstein apple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/4 inch cubes (read *NOTE)
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup seedless dark raisin
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
10 ounces fresh Baby Spinach, washed and patted dry (I use a salad spinner)

Steps:

  • *NOTE: Original recipe specified a golden delicious apple. However any apple variety that holds its shape well for baking will work in this recipe: Rome beauty, braeburn, gala, for example.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large pan over a medium-high flame.
  • When the oil is very hot, add the apple cubes and cook until they are lightly browned; about 1-2 minutes.
  • Add the pine nuts and cook until they are lightly browned; about 20-30 seconds. Watch pan carefully as the pine nuts can burn quite easily! *Constantly stir the nuts to avoid burning.*.
  • Add the raisins and the 1/2 teaspoon salt; stir together. Add the spinach and sauté very fast until it just starts to wilt; about another 20-30 seconds.
  • Now remove the pan from the heat; the spinach will continue to wilt off the heat.
  • Add salt to taste, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 183.5, Fat 12.9, SaturatedFat 1.4, Sodium 348.5, Carbohydrate 17.1, Fiber 3.3, Sugar 10.7, Protein 3.6

CATALAN SPINACH



Catalan Spinach image

Categories     Leafy Green     Side     Sauté     Christmas     Thanksgiving     Quick & Easy     Raisin     Apple     Pine Nut     Spinach     Winter     Shallot     Bon Appétit     Vegan     Vegetarian     Pescatarian     Dairy Free     Wheat/Gluten-Free     Peanut Free     Soy Free     No Sugar Added     Kosher

Yield Makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 6

6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 medium Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 cup pine nuts
3 shallots, finely chopped
1 cup raisins
3 9-ounce packages fresh spinach

Steps:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in each of 2 heavy large pots over high heat. Divide apples between pots and sauté until golden brown around edges, about 3 minutes. Divide pine nuts between pots; sauté until pine nuts are lightly toasted, about 3 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to each pot. Divide shallots and raisins between pots; stir to combine. Divide spinach between pots; cover and cook just until wilted, stirring occasionally, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper; transfer to bowl and serve.

Tips:

  • Choose Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach with vibrant green leaves for the best flavor and texture.
  • Thoroughly Clean Spinach: Rinse spinach thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
  • Use a Large Pan: Cook spinach in a large pan to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
  • Cook Quickly: Spinach cooks quickly, so sauté it over medium-high heat for only a few minutes.
  • Season Generously: Don't be afraid to season spinach with salt, garlic, and other spices to enhance its flavor.
  • Add Acidic Ingredients: Adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten the flavor of spinach.
  • Serve Immediately: Spinach is best served immediately after cooking to preserve its vibrant color and nutrients.

Conclusion:

Catalan spinach is a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the flavors of fresh spinach. With its quick cooking time and versatility, it's a perfect side dish or addition to various meals. Whether you prefer a simple sautéed spinach, a flavorful spinach with garlic and almonds, or a hearty spinach with chickpeas and raisins, there's a Catalan spinach recipe to suit your taste. So, embrace the vibrant flavors of spinach and enjoy this classic Catalan dish in all its glory!

Related Topics