Sautéed Spinach with Bacon

This Sautéed Spinach with Bacon recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that will elevate any weeknight meal. With just a handful of ingredients, it brings together the savory flavors of bacon and the vibrant freshness of spinach. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish stands out for its quick preparation and rich taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of only 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Savory Flavor: The combination of crispy bacon and tender spinach creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Side Dish: This sautéed spinach pairs well with various main courses, making it a great addition to any meal plan.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, spinach offers health benefits while bacon adds that irresistible flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: With only four basic ingredients, this recipe is accessible and budget-friendly.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential tools you’ll need to make this sautéed spinach with bacon.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Kitchen shears
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for frying bacon and sautéing spinach evenly.
• Kitchen shears: Make cutting bacon quick and easy, reducing prep time significantly.
• Tongs: Perfect for tossing the spinach, ensuring even distribution and wilting without mess.

Ingredients

This sautéed spinach with bacon recipe is an extremely simple to make side dish and only uses a handful of ingredients! It pairs with any weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 strips bacon
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 pound (16 oz.) fresh baby spinach
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Sautéed Spinach with Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. Cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears for quick results.
2. Fry the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Onion

1. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
2. Leave about 2-3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté over medium heat until softened and starting to lightly brown (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Sauté the Spinach

1. Add half of the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and toss with tongs.
2. Continue tossing until it wilts; then add more spinach gradually (in large handfuls) until all is wilted. This process should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Stir in the cooked bacon with the wilted spinach.
2. Season with salt & pepper as needed, then serve immediately for best flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Sautéed Spinach with Bacon as a perfect complement to your favorite meals!

How to Serve Sautéed Spinach with Bacon

Sautéed Spinach with Bacon is a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of sautéed spinach and bacon, creating a balanced plate.

Serve alongside Steak

• The rich taste of steak contrasts beautifully with the lightness of spinach, making it a great duo for a hearty meal.

Accompany Pasta Dishes

• Toss sautéed spinach with bacon into pasta dishes for added flavor and texture. It works well with creamy or tomato-based sauces.

Add to an Omelette

• Incorporate this dish into breakfast by adding it to an omelette. The smoky bacon enhances the overall taste, creating a delightful morning meal.

Combine with Quinoa

• For a healthy twist, serve sautéed spinach over quinoa. This combo provides protein and fiber while keeping it nutritious and filling.

How to Perfect Sautéed Spinach with Bacon

Achieving the ideal sautéed spinach with bacon requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to make your dish shine.

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts beautifully and has a tender texture that makes the dish more enjoyable.
• Cook bacon until crispy: Crispy bacon adds crunch and depth of flavor, which enhances the overall experience of this side dish.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you add too much spinach at once, it can steam instead of sautéing. Add it in batches for better results.
• Season gradually: Taste as you go when adding salt and pepper. Adjust seasonings to match your preferences for the best flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sautéed Spinach with Bacon

Sautéed Spinach with Bacon is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with other sides. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic add richness that complements the savory flavors of spinach.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely, enhancing your meal’s complexity.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn balances out the salty bacon while adding a touch of sweetness to your plate.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well, making it a great side option.
5. Crispy Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of asparagus works well alongside sautéed spinach, creating a vibrant green theme on your plate.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory dishes like sautéed spinach with bacon, providing balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing sautéed spinach with bacon, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Using too much bacon fat: Leaving too much fat can make the dish greasy. Aim for 2-3 tablespoons, which adds flavor without overwhelming the spinach.
• Overcooking the spinach: Sautéing spinach for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Cook just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your dish properly can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Not chopping the spinach: Using large leaves can make it hard to eat. Chop or roughly tear the spinach for easier serving and better distribution of flavors.
• Skipping the onion: Onions add a sweet depth of flavor that complements the bacon. Don’t skip this step; sautéing onions enhances the overall taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sautéed spinach with bacon in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sautéed Spinach with Bacon

• You can freeze this dish, but it’s best consumed fresh.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sautéed Spinach with Bacon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Sautéed Spinach with Bacon healthier?

You can reduce the fat by using turkey bacon or less bacon while adding extra garlic or spices for flavor.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh spinach gives a better texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture before sautéing.

Is Sautéed Spinach with Bacon gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients are gluten-free; just ensure any added condiments are also gluten-free.

What should I serve with Sautéed Spinach with Bacon?

This dish pairs well with steak, chicken, or fish, making it versatile enough for any meal.

Final Thoughts

Sautéed spinach with bacon is not only quick and easy but also a delicious side dish that enhances any meal. You can customize it by adding garlic, nuts, or different spices according to your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy its rich flavors!