If you’re craving a quick, nourishing side that bursts with earthy flavors and vibrant greens, you’ve got to try this Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach Recipe. It’s a deceptively simple dish that delivers rich, tender mushrooms perfectly paired with fresh, wilted spinach, all brightened with a touch of garlic and optional lemon juice. This combination not only makes for a colorful plate but also packs in wholesome nutrients, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant side for guests. Trust me, once you master this recipe, it will become your go-to for healthy, satisfying greens with a savory punch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color in this Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach Recipe. From the creamy butter that enriches the dish to the fresh garlic that adds zest, every element is essential to creating that perfect harmony on your plate.
- Olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing and helps cook the mushrooms evenly.
- Unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy texture and enhances the mushrooms’ natural umami.
- Cremini or white mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): The star ingredient, lending earthiness and a meaty texture.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory aroma that wakes up the flavors.
- Fresh baby spinach (5 ounces): Adds a vibrant, tender green element packed with nutrients and color.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle, warming spice that balances the sautéed mushrooms.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/8 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a gentle kick of heat.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds brightness and a fresh finish to the dish.
How to Make Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Heat the fats
Start by warming the olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts completely. This delicious fat combo creates the perfect foundation for tender, flavorful mushrooms that won’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the mushrooms
Add your sliced mushrooms and cook them gently, stirring occasionally for about 6 to 8 minutes. You’ll want to see them turn a lovely golden brown and release their natural juices. This step is what deepens the flavor, giving the dish that rich, savory base we all love.
Step 3: Add the garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Garlic cooks quickly and brings out a wonderful aroma, elevating the sautéed mushrooms with its warm, inviting essence.
Step 4: Incorporate the spinach
Add the fresh baby spinach in batches, stirring continuously so each handful wilts before adding more. This method ensures you get an even blend of mushrooms and spinach while keeping the vibrant green color intact.
Step 5: Season and finish
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Once the spinach is completely wilted and everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. For a lovely final touch, drizzle with lemon juice to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zest.
How to Serve Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this simple side, consider sprinkling finely chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top. A handful of toasted pine nuts or a shave of Parmesan can also add delightful texture and richness. These garnishes make the dish feel special and restaurant-quality without any fuss.
Side Dishes
This Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach Recipe pairs effortlessly with grilled chicken, steak, or fish, complementing the proteins with earthiness and freshness. It also works beautifully alongside pasta dishes, creamy risottos, or on top of grains like quinoa or farro for a wholesome vegetarian meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try stuffing these sautéed mushrooms and spinach into warm pita pockets or serving them over toasted baguette slices as a savory appetizer. You can even mix the sautéed veggies into scrambled eggs or an omelet for a nutrient-packed breakfast or brunch option that feels indulgent yet light.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sautéed mushrooms with spinach keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’ve cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, keep in mind that spinach loses some texture after thawing. If you do freeze it, place the cooled sautéed mushrooms and spinach in a freezer-safe container and use within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, gently reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving if you can, as this helps maintain that fresh sautéed texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cremini or white mushrooms work wonderfully, you can substitute with shiitake, portobello, or even a wild mushroom mix for a more complex flavor profile. Just be sure to slice them uniformly for even cooking.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
As written, this recipe includes butter, so to make it vegan, substitute the butter with more olive oil or a plant-based alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan and delicious as is.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes for more color and flavor variety. Just sauté those vegetables first to ensure everything finishes cooking evenly.
How spicy is the dish if I use red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild warmth that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms without overwhelming the other flavors. You can easily omit or adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh spinach?
Frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet. Fresh spinach is ideal to keep that bright color and tender texture in this Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach Recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can shine when treated with care and a bit of love. It’s quick, wholesome, and endlessly versatile, perfect for busy days or when you want a healthy side dish that feels special. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a regular in your kitchen favorites!
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Easy Sautéed Mushrooms with Spinach Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful side dish featuring sautéed cremini mushrooms and fresh baby spinach, seasoned with garlic, salt, pepper, and a hint of lemon juice. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, pasta, or enjoying as a simple vegetarian and gluten-free option.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Fats & Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and butter: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts, creating a flavorful base for cooking the mushrooms.
- Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Add the spinach: Add the baby spinach in batches, stirring continuously until each addition wilts and reduces in volume, ensuring even cooking.
- Season the dish: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, then stir well to combine all ingredients uniformly.
- Finish and serve: Once the spinach is fully wilted and everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Drizzle with lemon juice if desired, then serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar while sautéing the mushrooms.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, or can be served as a simple vegetarian side.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
