Steaming Spinach: A Quick, Healthy, And Delicious Way

Spinach is a versatile leafy green that can be used in a variety of dishes, from omelettes to soups. It is a nutrient-dense food that is easy to cook and can be prepared in a number of ways, including steaming, sautéing, and blanching. Steaming spinach is a simple and quick process that requires minimal water and helps to retain the bright green colour and tender texture of the leaves. This method of cooking spinach is ideal for preparing large batches, as it cooks the spinach evenly without overcooking it.

How to Cook Fresh Spinach by Steaming

How to steam spinach on the stove

Steaming spinach is a simple process that does not take long. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam spinach on the stove:

Wash and dry the spinach:

Prior to steaming, always wash your spinach to remove any contaminants. Place the spinach in a colander and rinse it under tap water until it is slightly damp. If you don't have a colander, you can put the spinach in a bowl and swish it around as you pour water over it. You can also immerse the spinach in a sinkful of cold water, let the sand settle at the bottom, and then lift out the spinach. Repeat this process until no sand remains. After washing, pat the spinach dry with a clean paper towel. It doesn't need to be completely dry, but you don't want it dripping wet.

Prepare your cookware:

Pour two tablespoons of water into a medium saucepan. Do not add more water, as the spinach will also have droplets of water on it. Make sure to choose a saucepan that can accommodate all of your spinach without cramming it in. A saucepan that is too small will cause the spinach to cook unevenly. If you don't have a large enough saucepan, you may need to cook the spinach in two batches. Place a metal steamer in the saucepan, and bring the water to a boil.

Steam the spinach:

Add the spinach to the saucepan or steamer, cover, and cook until the spinach is just wilted. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on the spinach, as over-steaming will result in mushy, gloppy spinach. Toss the spinach occasionally with a pair of tongs to ensure even cooking.

Serve the spinach:

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the steamed spinach to a colander. Gently shake the colander over the sink to remove any excess water. Season the spinach as desired. Herbs and lemon juice go well with steamed spinach. It makes a great side dish, especially when paired with meat.

Store leftovers:

Leftover spinach can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power. To store, roll the spinach in a paper towel and place it in a plastic bag or plastic container in the refrigerator. The paper towel will absorb excess moisture and keep the spinach from becoming too wilted.

How to steam spinach in the microwave

Steaming spinach is a simple and quick process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it in the microwave.

First, wash your spinach leaves under a tap. Place them in a colander and rinse, or put them in a bowl and swish them around in some water. After washing, pat the spinach dry with a paper towel. It doesn't need to be bone dry, but you don't want it dripping wet.

Next, find a microwave-safe bowl that is big enough to hold your spinach without cramming it in. Place the spinach in the bowl. If you have a lot of spinach, you may need to do this in two batches. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate.

Now, put the bowl in the microwave and cook on high power. The time will depend on the amount of spinach you are cooking. For a small amount, microwave for 3-minute intervals, and for a larger amount, try 7-minute intervals. Keep an eye on it and remove when the spinach is limp, wilted, and bright green.

Finally, if your recipe calls for it, gently squeeze out the excess moisture from the spinach. You can save the green water for use in soup. Now your spinach is ready to serve!

You can store any leftover spinach in the fridge for 3-5 days.

How to prepare fresh spinach for steaming

Steaming spinach is a simple and quick process that can be done in a few easy steps. Here is how to prepare fresh spinach for steaming:

• Wash the spinach: Place the spinach in a colander and run it under tap water until it is slightly damp. Spinach can be dirty, so make sure to wash it thoroughly to get rid of any dirt or contaminants. If you don't have a colander, simply put the spinach in a bowl and swish it around in the water.
• Dry the spinach: After washing, dry the spinach with a clean paper towel. It doesn't need to be completely dry, but you don't want it dripping wet.
• Remove the stems (optional): If you are using larger spinach leaves, such as flat-leaf spinach, you may want to remove the stems as they can be tough. You can cut them off with a knife or pull them off with your hands.
• Prepare the cooking vessel: For stove-top steaming, use a medium saucepan or a large pot with a metal steamer insert. Make sure the saucepan or pot is big enough to hold all your spinach without cramming it in. For microwave steaming, use a microwave-safe serving bowl that is big enough to hold your spinach comfortably.
• Add water: If using the stove-top method, pour a small amount of water into the saucepan or pot. Two tablespoons of water are usually enough, as there will still be water droplets on the spinach leaves. If using a steamer insert, add about 2 inches of water to the bottom of the pot. If microwaving, there is no need to add water.

Now that your spinach is prepared, you can move on to the steaming process.

How to season cooked spinach

Once you've steamed your spinach, it's time to season it. Here are some ideas for seasoning cooked spinach:

• Salt and pepper: Sprinkle salt and pepper over your cooked spinach for a classic flavour enhancement.
• Garlic: Add some chopped or sliced garlic to your spinach while cooking, or sprinkle with garlic powder after cooking.
• Butter: Drizzle melted butter over your steamed spinach for a rich, indulgent touch.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavour of steamed spinach. You can also add lemon zest for extra citrusy flavour.
• Olive oil: Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over your spinach for a simple, healthy seasoning.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your spinach for a salty, savoury touch.
• Spices: Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or crushed red pepper to your spinach for a spicy kick.
• Nuts and seeds: Toasted walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavour to your spinach.
• Other vegetables: Sautéed onions, shallots, or mushrooms can enhance the flavour of your spinach and make it a more substantial side dish.
• Dressing: In Japan, it is common to dress steamed spinach with a mixture of oil and braised garlic with a touch of soy sauce.
• Vinegar: A splash of vinegar can add a sharp, tangy flavour to your spinach.
• Cream: For a richer dish, add a glug of sweet cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk creamer to your spinach.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs such as oregano, parsley, or coriander can enhance the flavour of your spinach.
• Spices: Try adding mustard seeds, coriander, or cumin to your spinach for an aromatic touch.

How to store fresh spinach

Spinach is a versatile leafy green packed with nutrients that can be added to many dishes and recipes. However, spinach has a high water content and can go bad quickly. Here are some tips to keep your spinach fresh for longer:

Wash and Dry

Before storing your spinach, it is important to wash it. This can be done in a salad spinner, which saves time and makes the process easier. After washing, ensure that you dry your spinach completely before storing it. Liquid causes spinach to get slimy, so it is crucial to remove as much moisture as possible. You can use paper towels or clean cloths to pat the spinach dry.

Use Paper Towels and a Container

Once your spinach is clean and dry, you can store it in a container lined with paper towels. Place the dry spinach in a layer on top of the paper towel. Add another paper towel on top and close the container. The paper towels will absorb any excess moisture and help keep the spinach fresh. Store the container in the refrigerator, preferably in the crisper drawer, which has a lower humidity level. Change out the paper towel if it becomes wet.

Avoid Ethylene-Producing Fruits

When storing spinach in the fridge, keep it away from fruits like bananas, apples, melons, pears, and tomatoes. These fruits produce ethylene, which can cause spinach to wilt and decay prematurely.

Use a Plastic Bag

If you plan on consuming your spinach within a week, you can store it in its original packaging or a dry plastic bag in the refrigerator. Ensure that the spinach is dry, and consider adding a paper towel to the bag to absorb any excess moisture.

Freeze Your Spinach

For long-term storage, you can freeze your spinach. First, blanch the spinach by placing it in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then transfer it to an ice bath. Pat the spinach dry and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen spinach can last for nine to 14 months.

Frequently asked questions