Sauteed Spinach Mushrooms Onions: 1 Delicious Side

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Sauteed spinach mushrooms onions have become my go-to for adding a burst of fresh, savory flavor to any meal, and I think you’ll agree it’s the best way to cook spinach mushrooms and onions. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of garlic and onions sizzling in the pan, followed by the vibrant green spinach wilting down, was just incredible. This easy sautéed spinach mushrooms onions recipe is so simple, yet the combination of earthy mushrooms, sweet onions, and tender spinach, all kissed with garlic, is pure magic. It’s a healthy sautéed spinach mushrooms onions that I can feel good about serving. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions

Incredible flavor: The savory combination of earthy mushrooms, sweet onions, and tender spinach is truly delicious.
Super quick prep: You can have this ready in under 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vitamins from spinach and nutrients from mushrooms, it’s a guilt-free addition to your plate.
Budget-friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this side dish won’t break the bank.
Family-friendly favorite: Even picky eaters often enjoy this flavorful and colorful vegetable dish.
Versatile side dish: This spinach mushroom onion side dish pairs perfectly with almost any main course.
Easy to customize: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
The ultimate spinach mushroom onion side dish for any meal!

Ingredients for Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions

Gathering the right Sautéed spinach mushrooms onions ingredients is key to this simple yet delicious side dish. I’ve found that using fresh ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil – This healthy fat forms the base for sautéing, helping to soften the aromatics and cook the mushrooms.
1 medium onion, thinly sliced or chopped – Onions provide a wonderful sweetness that intensifies as they cook.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic adds that essential fragrant punch that complements the other flavors beautifully.
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced – I love using cremini mushrooms for their earthy depth, but button mushrooms work wonderfully too. They release moisture as they cook, adding richness.
10–12 ounces fresh spinach leaves, washed and roughly chopped – Fresh spinach wilts down significantly, so don’t be alarmed by the volume! It adds vibrant color and nutrients.
Salt, to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Black pepper, to taste – A classic pairing that adds a little warmth.
Optional: squeeze of lemon juice or splash of balsamic vinegar – A touch of acidity can really brighten the dish.
Optional: Parmesan cheese or other grated/crumbled cheese for garnish – For a salty, cheesy finish.

How to Make Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions

Learning how to cook spinach mushrooms and onions is incredibly easy and rewarding! This method ensures a delicious, perfectly cooked side dish every time. I love how quickly this comes together on a busy weeknight.

Step 1: Start by heating 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I like to let the oil get nice and warm before adding anything else.
Step 2: Add the sliced or chopped onion to the hot skillet. Sauté the onion, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, which usually takes about 3–5 minutes. You want them tender, not browned.
Step 3: Now, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for just about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
Step 4: Toss in the sliced mushrooms. Cook them, stirring every so often, for about 5–7 minutes. You’ll notice they release their moisture and then start to brown nicely. This browning adds so much depth to the flavor.

Step 5: It’s time for the spinach! Add the fresh spinach leaves in batches, stirring after each addition until the spinach just begins to wilt. This gradual addition helps prevent the pan from getting too crowded and steaming the spinach. This is a key part of how to cook spinach mushrooms and onions perfectly.
Step 6: Season everything generously with salt and black pepper to taste. If you’re using a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar, add it now and stir to combine everything beautifully.
Step 7: Turn off the heat. For an extra touch, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or your favorite garnish. Serve your delicious sautéed spinach mushrooms and onions immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that elevate this simple dish. Follow these tips for the absolute best results:

Don’t overcrowd the pan. This is the best way to sauté spinach mushrooms and onions; it allows everything to cook evenly and brown properly instead of steaming.
Wash and dry your spinach thoroughly. Excess water can make the dish soggy, so pat it dry after washing.
Cook mushrooms until they release their liquid and start to brown. This step is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. A little salt and pepper can really make the flavors pop.

What’s the secret to perfect Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions?

The secret is building flavor layers and not overcooking the spinach. Sautéing the onions until sweet, browning the mushrooms, and then adding the garlic for that fragrant kick creates a fantastic base for a delicious garlic sautéed spinach mushrooms onions dish. For more tips on flavor building, check out this guide on flavor profiles.

Can I make Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the onion and mushroom mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the mixture and then add the spinach, cooking just until wilted. This is a great way to save time, similar to how you might prepare ingredients for other dishes in advance.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions?

A common mistake is overcrowding the pan, which leads to steaming instead of sautéing. Also, be sure to cook spinach just until wilted to prevent sogginess. Lastly, don’t burn the garlic; it only needs about 30 seconds to become fragrant. Learning proper cooking techniques can help avoid these issues, much like understanding basic cooking methods.

Best Ways to Serve Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions

This versatile sauté is a fantastic addition to any meal, easily transforming a simple dinner into something special. It’s truly the best sautéed spinach mushrooms onions side dish I can think of for weeknights or even more elegant occasions. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken breasts or a juicy steak; the savory vegetables complement the richness of the meat perfectly.

It’s also wonderful spooned over fluffy white rice or creamy pasta dishes, adding a healthy boost of flavor and color. For a complete vegetarian meal, try it with baked tofu or lentil loaf. The earthy mushrooms and sweet onions create a delightful spinach mushroom onion side dish that everyone will enjoy. Consider pairing it with a hearty lentil soup for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts for Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions

Per serving, this delicious dish offers a healthy dose of nutrients. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without adding a lot of calories.

Calories: 150
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 300mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on the nutritional benefits of spinach, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions

I love that this dish is just as delicious as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep. Once your sautéed spinach mushrooms and onions have cooled down completely, transfer them to an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents any unwanted odors from other foods in your fridge. You can store the leftovers in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. While I haven’t personally frozen this dish, it is technically possible for up to 3 months, though the texture of the spinach might change slightly upon thawing.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is gently in a skillet over low heat. I find that adding a small splash of water or broth really helps revive the dish and ensures it doesn’t dry out. This method keeps the vegetables tender and flavorful, much like when they were first made. It’s a fantastic way to have a healthy side ready in minutes! This is a great example of how to properly store and reheat cooked vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions

What’s the best way to get the most flavor from sautéed spinach mushrooms onions?

To maximize flavor, start by ensuring your mushrooms are nicely browned. This caramelization is key! Also, don’t skip the step of sautéing the onions until they’re sweet and translucent. A good base of softened onions and browned mushrooms really makes the whole dish sing.

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you use frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely and then squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This is crucial to avoid a watery dish. Once drained, you can add it to the pan just like fresh spinach, cooking until heated through.

How do I make this dish vegan?

This sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and garlic onions dish is already very close to vegan! Simply omit the optional Parmesan cheese garnish. Ensure your olive oil is plant-based, which it typically is, and you’re good to go. It’s a wonderfully flavorful vegan side.

What other vegetables can I add to sautéed spinach mushrooms onions?

You can easily boost this dish by adding other quick-cooking vegetables! Thinly sliced bell peppers, chopped zucchini, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes halved would be delicious additions. Add them along with the mushrooms to ensure they cook through.

Variations of Sautéed Spinach Mushrooms Onions You Can Try

While the classic combination is fantastic, I love experimenting with this dish to keep things exciting. Here are a few variations you might enjoy!

Vegan Delight: For a completely vegan version, simply omit the optional cheese garnish. This recipe is naturally dairy-free otherwise, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy vegan meal.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and mushrooms for a subtle heat that complements the earthy flavors.
Shallot Swap: Instead of onions, try using shallots. For a delightful flavor twist, consider making sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and shallots. Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that’s a bit more refined.
Balsamic Glaze: Finish the dish with a generous splash of balsamic vinegar and let it reduce slightly in the pan. It adds a wonderful tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms and spinach.