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Garlic Sautéed Spinach

This garlic sautéed spinach is a simple yet flavorful side dish made with fresh spinach, thinly sliced garlic, and a splash of olive oil. The method involves quick sautéing until the garlic is fragrant and golden, and the greens are tender and vibrant, creating a lightly oily, aromatic dish with crispy garlic bits and wilted leaves. It’s a perfect balance of earthy greens and pungent garlic that’s both nourishing and irresistibly addictive.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4-6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 1 large bunch fresh spinach washed, dried, stems removed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • to taste flaky sea salt for seasoning
  • 1 lemon lemon optional, for squeezing

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Small bowl
  • Measuring spoon

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients: thinly sliced garlic, fresh spinach, olive oil, salt, and lemon if using. Prepare your tools: a large skillet, spatula or tongs, a small bowl, and a measuring spoon.
  2. Heat the olive oil in the skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and ripples gently—this signals it’s ready to cook the garlic.
  3. Add the sliced garlic to the hot oil. Sizzle for about 30 seconds, stirring gently, until it becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden. Listen for that aromatic crackle that tells you it’s developing flavor.
    4-6 cloves garlic
  4. Immediately add all the spinach to the skillet. It will seem like a lot, but it wilts down quickly. Use your spatula or tongs to toss the greens, coating them evenly in the fragrant garlic oil.
    4-6 cloves garlic
  5. Cook the spinach for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is wilted, tender, and bright green. You might see some crispy bits of garlic forming on the edges—this is perfect.
  6. Season generously with flaky sea salt, tasting and adjusting as needed. If you like, squeeze a little lemon juice over the greens for a fresh, bright finish.
    4-6 cloves garlic
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach rest for a minute to allow flavors to meld. The garlic should be crisp and golden, and the greens perfectly wilted and vibrant.
  8. Transfer the garlic sautéed spinach to a serving dish. Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the crispy garlic bits and tender greens in every bite.