Creamed Citrus Spinach

Creamed Citrus Spinach Recipe - Vegan Food

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Creamed Citrus Spinach is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of baby spinach with the zesty flavors of orange and lemon zest. This creamy and nutritious recipe is perfect for a light and healthy meal.

History

Creamed Citrus Spinach is a modern twist on the classic creamed spinach dish. The addition of citrus zest adds a refreshing and tangy flavor to the dish, making it a unique and delicious option for a side dish or light meal.

Ingredients

0.5 cup fresh baby spinach
1 cup plain gluten-free soymilk, unsweetened
2 tsp orange zest, finely grated
2 tsp lemon zest, finely grated
2 tsp vegan margarine
0.5 cup yellow onion, minced
pinch of nutmeg
sea salt, to taste
4 tbsp sliced almonds, toasted

How to prepare

Steam the spinach with a few tablespoons of water until it is just wilted.
Squeeze out any excess water and coarsely chop the spinach.
Place the soymilk, orange zest, and lemon zest in a small saucepan and bring it to a boil.
Simmer the mixture, stirring frequently, until it is reduced by half.
Heat the margarine over medium heat in a sauté pan and add the onion.
Cook the onion until it becomes translucent.
Add the spinach to the pan and cook it until most of the liquid has evaporated.
Add the reduced soymilk to the spinach and cook it until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
Season with a pinch of nutmeg and sea salt to taste.
Garnish with sliced almonds.

Variations

Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a more complex flavor.
Substitute the soymilk with coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
Stir in some cooked quinoa or brown rice for added protein and fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to squeeze out any excess water from the spinach after steaming to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Toasting the sliced almonds before garnishing adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor to the dish.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less nutmeg and sea salt.

Serving Suggestions

Creamed Citrus Spinach can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or as a light meal on its own. Pair it with a fresh salad or whole grain bread for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the spinach helps to retain its vibrant green color and nutrients.

- Reducing the soymilk creates a creamy and thick sauce that coats the spinach beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use dairy milk or cream instead of soymilk for a richer flavor.

- Swap the vegan margarine for butter if you're not following a vegan diet.

- Replace the sliced almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Creamed Citrus Spinach can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Creamed Citrus Spinach with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it in a decorative serving dish for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Creamed Citrus Spinach with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the citrus flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, serve it with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Creamed Citrus Spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 80% DV

Vitamin C: 30% DV

Calcium: 15% DV

Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains: Tree nuts (almonds)

Summary

Creamed Citrus Spinach is a nutrient-dense dish that is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron. It is a healthy and delicious option for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Creamed Citrus Spinach is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With the bright citrus notes and creamy texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for a light and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Creamed Citrus Spinach. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn all I could about cooking. My grandmother, who was a fantastic cook herself, had taught me many recipes over the years. But this one was different. It was something I had never heard of before, and I was determined to master it.

I first came across the recipe in an old cookbook that I found hidden away in the back of a dusty cabinet in my grandmother's kitchen. The pages were yellowed and fragile, and the recipe was written in elegant cursive handwriting. It called for fresh spinach, cream, butter, and a hint of citrus - a combination that intrigued me.

I asked my grandmother about the recipe, but she shook her head and told me it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. She offered to teach me how to make it, but only if I promised to keep it to myself. I eagerly agreed, and thus began my journey to master the art of Creamed Citrus Spinach.

My grandmother showed me how to wash and prepare the spinach, carefully removing any tough stems and bruised leaves. She then taught me how to blanch the spinach in boiling water, before plunging it into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This ensured that the spinach remained bright green and tender.

Next, she showed me how to make the cream sauce. She melted butter in a saucepan, then added flour to make a roux. Slowly, she poured in cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickened. Finally, she added a splash of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of orange zest, giving the sauce a bright, citrusy flavor.

As she combined the blanched spinach with the creamy citrus sauce, the kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When it was finally time to sit down and eat, I took my first bite of the Creamed Citrus Spinach. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the earthy spinach paired perfectly with the rich cream and the tangy citrus. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe for Creamed Citrus Spinach, making it my own by adding a touch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its unique combination of flavors.

As I grew older, I realized the true value of this recipe. It wasn't just about the ingredients or the technique - it was about the memories and traditions that it held. Every time I made Creamed Citrus Spinach, I felt a connection to my grandmother and to all the generations of women who had come before me, passing down their knowledge and love of cooking.

And so, as I sit here today, preparing a batch of Creamed Citrus Spinach for my own grandchildren, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that has brought so much joy and connection to my family. I may not know where it originally came from, but I know that it will continue to be a cherished part of our family history for years to come.