I really enjoy making this garlic sautéed spinach with onions because it turns simple ingredients into a flavorful side dish in just minutes. I get tender spinach, lightly sweet onions, and fragrant garlic all cooked together in one skillet. It’s light, comforting, and fits perfectly into busy days when I still want something fresh and homemade.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s fast, easy, and uses pantry staples. I like how the onions soften and become slightly sweet, balancing the earthy spinach. The garlic adds warmth and depth, and I can easily adjust the seasoning or finish it with lemon juice or cheese depending on what I’m serving it with.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound (450 g) fresh spinach, rinsed and dried
¼ to ½ teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 to 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional)
Pinch of red pepper flakes or 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
Directions
I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the diced onion and cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until it becomes soft and lightly golden. Next, I stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
I then add the spinach in batches, tossing it gently with tongs as it wilts down. This usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. I make sure to remove it from the heat as soon as the spinach is tender and glossy. Finally, I season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice if I’m using it, tasting and adjusting as needed before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get 4 servings from this recipe. Prep time is about 5 minutes, and cook time is around 8 minutes, so the dish is ready in roughly 13 minutes total.
Variations
I like to customize this dish in different ways. Sometimes I add a bit of lemon zest for extra brightness. Other times I sprinkle in feta or Parmesan for richness. When I want a heartier side, I mix in toasted pine nuts or white beans just before serving.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the spinach gently in a skillet over low heat with a small splash of olive oil. I don’t recommend freezing, since the spinach releases too much moisture once thawed.
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Spinach?
I can use frozen spinach if necessary, but I always thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Fresh spinach gives me the best texture and flavor.
What Onion Works Best For This Recipe?
I usually choose yellow onions because they soften nicely and develop a mild sweetness when cooked.
How Do I Keep The Spinach From Getting Watery?
I make sure the spinach is very well dried after washing and avoid overcooking it.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead Of Time?
I sometimes cook the onions and garlic ahead of time, but I prefer cooking the spinach right before serving for the best color and texture.
How Can I Add More Flavor Without Overpowering The Dish?
I like adding a squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a small amount of cheese right at the end.
Conclusion
I keep this garlic sautéed spinach with onions in regular rotation because it’s quick, healthy, and full of flavor. With minimal ingredients and effort, I get a versatile side dish that works well with many meals and never feels boring.
This garlic sautéed spinach with onions is a quick and flavorful side dish featuring tender spinach, sweet onions, and aromatic garlic—perfect for busy weeknights or pairing with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound (450 g) fresh spinach, rinsed and dried
¼ to ½ teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 to 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional)
Pinch of red pepper flakes or 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until soft and lightly golden.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add spinach in batches, tossing gently as it wilts. Cook for 2–3 minutes until all spinach is wilted and glossy.
Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with optional red pepper flakes or Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Ensure spinach is well dried to prevent excess moisture.
Add lemon zest or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Stir in toasted pine nuts or white beans for a heartier dish.
Use yellow onions for mild sweetness when sautéed.
Don’t overcook spinach—remove from heat as soon as wilted.
