Hey everyone, it’s Jay. I’m excited to share a spinach recipe that changed my mind about this leafy green. I used to avoid spinach — I’d eaten it maybe a handful of times — because it just didn’t agree with my picky taste buds. But I knew I was missing out on the nutrition it provides, so I kept experimenting until I found a way to enjoy it.
If you think frozen spinach can’t be as good as fresh, give this recipe a try. Frozen spinach can be flavorful and makes a fantastic vegetable side dish when cooked the right way.
Health benefits of spinach
Spinach is packed with nutrients. It’s a great source of iron, which helps people who get cold easily or struggle with low iron levels. It also provides calcium for strong bones and teeth, and contains compounds that may help reduce the risk of conditions like asthma and cancer. Knowing this made me more determined to find a way to enjoy it.
I started testing additions and seasonings that would make spinach more palatable. After trying several combinations, I landed on a mix that transformed frozen spinach into something I actually look forward to eating. Now spinach and I are friends.
Why I created this recipe
The idea came to me while I was in the freezer aisle picking up other veggies. I grabbed a bag of frozen spinach on a whim and decided to experiment. I thought about ingredients I enjoy that might pair well with spinach, and that’s how I discovered how well apple cider vinegar and broth work together with it.
Using apple cider vinegar and chicken broth gives the spinach a juicy, tangy flavor that brightens the whole dish. My mom tried it and asked if I’d put vinegar in it — she loved it. That convinced me the vinegar makes a real difference for most people, not just me.
The rest of the seasonings are simple pantry staples and complement the spinach perfectly. I first thought of apple cider vinegar while developing other frozen vegetable recipes, and it proved to be the best addition. If it works for collard greens and green beans, it works for spinach too.
Main dishes to serve with Spinach:
Here are a few main course ideas that pair well with this spinach side dish:
- Simple Juicy Oven Roasted Whole Chicken
- Slow Cooker Smothered Turkey Wings
- Baked Smothered Pork Chops
- Classic Meatloaf
Storage and reheating
- Storing: Transfer cooled spinach to an airtight container and refrigerate. Seal with a tight lid, plastic wrap, or foil.
- Microwave reheating: Place spinach in a microwave-safe dish, heat for 2 minutes, stir, then heat an additional 30 seconds if needed.
- Skillet reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through (about 5 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions
- There’s a lot of juice left over: That’s common with frozen spinach, especially if it’s been in the freezer a while. The liquid is fine — strain it if you prefer, or add it to rice or pasta. It keeps the spinach from drying out.
- How to double the recipe: Simply double the ingredients. Cooking time may increase slightly, but no other changes are necessary.
Other frozen vegetable recipes you might like:
- Easy Frozen Mixed Vegetables
- Delicious Frozen Broccoli
- Frozen Corn
Frozen vegetables can seem bland because extended time in ice reduces some natural flavor. This recipe combats that with flavorful ingredients, and it works well with fresh spinach too. Try it and let me know how you like it.
If you made this, share a photo and tag @phillyjaycooking on social media.
Enjoy — later! PBJ~
Description
Tangy, seasoned spinach cooked in apple cider vinegar and broth. A flavorful vegetable side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (16 oz) frozen cut spinach leaves
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1–1/2 tbsp butter
- 1–1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Place a skillet over high heat and add the chicken broth.
- When the broth comes to a boil (about 2 minutes), reduce heat to medium-high.
- Add the frozen spinach, apple cider vinegar, butter, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until heated through and flavors are melded.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
Did you make this recipe?
Share a photo and tag @phillyjaycooking.
