Tasty spinach
- Vegetarian
- Energy Kcal 246
- Carbohydrates g 14.1
- of which sugars g 5.1
- Protein g 7.8
- Fats g 17.6
- of which saturated fat g 6.58
- Fiber g 2.9
- Cholesterol mg 27
- Sodium mg 654
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep time: 5 min
- Cook time: 30 min
- Serving: 4
- Cost: Low
PRESENTATION
Spinaci sfiziosi is one of those really really great Italian side dishes that totally changes how you think about spinach. I mean, in lots of Italian homes, especially up north, this dish pops up when folks wanna turn simple ingredients into something a bit more special. And here's the thing, what truly sets it apart from other easy spinach recipes is the homemade béchamel sauce that just coats the greens beautifully. Fresh spinach gets quickly wilted, then that warm, silky béchamel seeps in, making everything creamy and soft. Really, it's a far cry from your usual sautéed spinach or plain garlic spinach—this version is way more comforting and moist, making it a hit even with those who usually steer clear of green veggies. And the sauce? It gives the spinach that tender melt-in-your-mouth feel, plus a pinch of nutmeg adds a cozy touch that's hard to resist.
Families in Italy adore this spinach side dish, offering a fresh change from the typical dinnertime standoffs. And parents? They love it too. Since it’s one of those healthy spinach recipes that sneak greens onto the plate like comfort food. Unlike some quick spinach recipes, this one feels super homemade because of the béchamel sauce, and it pairs well with pretty much any main course. You'll find plenty of regional twists—some families throw a bit of cheese on top or maybe a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a golden, bubbly finish that's kinda more filling. Others might add a squeeze of lemon for a tangy kick that brightens the flavors. For sure, whether you stick to the classic or try a variation, Spinaci sfiziosi proves that simple spinach dishes can be really satisfying. It's soft, creamy, and strikes just the right balance of rich and light—perfect for turning an everyday meal into something a little more special without much fuss. This dish is a testament to the magic of traditional Italian cooking, where even the simplest ingredients become spectacular.
INGREDIENTS
- Spinach 17 cups (500 g) - (fresh)
- Fresh scallion 1.6 oz (45 g)
- Extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp (30 g)
- Fine salt 1 pinch
How to prepare Tasty spinach
To make the tasty spinach, wilt the spinach in a pan with 4 tablespoons of water 1 and a pinch of salt. Cover with a lid 2 and continue cooking until they are cooked and tender. Let cool 3 and set aside.
While the spinach is cooking, prepare the Béchamel sauce separately by melting the butter over low heat 4, then turn off the heat and add the sifted flour 5, mixing with a whisk to avoid lumps. Then put it back on low heat and stir until it becomes golden. Add the milk 6
stirring everything vigorously with the whisk 7. Cook for 5-6 minutes over low heat until the sauce has thickened. Salt and sprinkle with nutmeg 8. Chop the spinach coarsely with a knife 9,
clean the spring onion: remove the beard and the outer part with a knife, discard the green part, wash and chop the bulb 10. Heat the olive oil in a pan, add the spring onion 11 and let it soften for about 15 minutes over very low heat 12,
then add the spinach 13 and sauté for a couple of minutes before mixing them with the béchamel 14. Adjust with salt and pepper and serve your tasty spinach piping hot 15.