What To Know
- This recipe empowers you to recreate this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen, bringing a taste of fine dining to your table.
- Sauté chopped onions in butter until softened and add them to the dish for a savory touch.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a kick.
Del Frisco’s creamed spinach is a culinary masterpiece, renowned for its velvety texture, rich flavor, and addictive appeal. This recipe empowers you to recreate this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen, bringing a taste of fine dining to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the spinach: Thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
2. Create the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture turns golden brown.
3. Incorporate the milk: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Season and add spinach: Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Stir in the drained spinach and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
5. Enhance with cheese and herbs: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, chives, and parsley.
6. Serve and savor: Serve the creamed spinach immediately as a side dish or over your favorite grilled meats or fish.
Tips for a Perfect Creamed Spinach:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and unsalted butter for the best flavor.
- Drain the spinach thoroughly: Excess moisture can dilute the sauce and make it watery.
- Cook the roux until golden brown: This step ensures a rich and flavorful base for the sauce.
- Simmer the sauce until thickened: Be patient and allow the sauce to simmer for several minutes to develop its full body.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese as desired.
Variations:
- Add sautéed mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter and add them to the creamed spinach for an earthy flavor.
- Incorporate sautéed onions: Sauté chopped onions in butter until softened and add them to the dish for a savory touch.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a kick.
- Top with crispy shallots: Fry thinly sliced shallots until golden brown and sprinkle them over the creamed spinach for a crunchy contrast.
Health Benefits of Creamed Spinach:
- Rich in iron: Spinach is a good source of iron, which is essential for red blood cell production.
- Excellent source of vitamins: Creamed spinach provides vitamins A, C, and K, which are important for overall health and well-being.
- Contains antioxidants: Spinach is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Low in calories: Creamed spinach is a relatively low-calorie side dish, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Culinary Pairing Suggestions:
- Grilled meats: Serve creamed spinach alongside grilled steak, chicken, or fish for a classic and satisfying pairing.
- Roasted vegetables: Pair creamed spinach with roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts, for a colorful and flavorful meal.
- Pasta dishes: Add a creamy touch to your favorite pasta dishes by stirring in some creamed spinach.
- Eggs: Creamed spinach is a delightful accompaniment to eggs, whether they’re poached, fried, or scrambled.
Ending Note:
With this recipe, you can now effortlessly create Del Frisco‘s signature creamed spinach in your own kitchen. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and versatility make it an ideal side dish for any occasion. Indulge in this culinary delight and experience the bliss of fine dining at home.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chopped spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make creamed spinach ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What can I do if my creamed spinach is too watery?
A: If your creamed spinach is too watery, simmer it over low heat until some of the excess liquid evaporates. You can also add a bit more flour to thicken it.
Q: Can I use other cheeses besides Parmesan?
A: Yes, you can use other grated cheeses, such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack. However, Parmesan cheese provides the classic flavor that complements creamed spinach best.
Q: What are some healthy ways to enjoy creamed spinach?
A: Serve creamed spinach over grilled lean meats, roasted vegetables, or whole-wheat pasta for a healthier meal. You can also reduce the amount of butter or use olive oil instead.
