Sautéed Spinach on the Arteflame Grill
This simple and delicious sautéed spinach recipe is cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill, using its flat top cooktop to gently wilt the spinach and infuse it with rich, buttery flavors. It’s the perfect healthy side dish to complement grilled meats or as a nutritious addition to any meal. The spinach cooks quickly on the grill, locking in nutrients while creating a light, savory flavor profile that’s enhanced with garlic and butter.
Introduction
This sautéed spinach recipe is a quick and easy side dish that’s cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill. With butter, garlic, and a touch of lemon, the spinach wilts beautifully on the flat top cooktop, absorbing all the rich flavors while maintaining a bright, fresh taste. A perfect addition to any grilled meal, this recipe shows how you can create healthy sides using only the Arteflame’s versatile cooktop.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
Prepare your Arteflame grill by lighting it up with oiled napkins and firewood. Once the grill is hot, about 20 minutes later, identify the medium-heat zone on the flat cooktop for cooking the spinach. The medium heat will prevent the spinach from wilting too fast or burning.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Place the butter on the flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill, allowing it to melt gently in the medium-heat zone. As the butter melts, it will create a rich base for sautéing the spinach.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Toss the minced garlic into the melted butter, spreading it evenly over the cooktop with a spatula. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Sauté the Spinach
Add the spinach directly onto the butter and garlic mixture. Stir the spinach constantly with tongs, ensuring all leaves are coated in butter. The spinach will begin to wilt quickly. Continue sautéing for about 2-3 minutes, until all the spinach has wilted but still retains its bright green color. The water from the spinach will flow into the center of the grill and burn off.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Once the spinach is fully wilted, season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor, and sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Stir everything together for another 30 seconds to combine the flavors.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Remove the spinach from the grill and transfer to a serving dish. Serve hot alongside your grilled meats or enjoy it as a light and healthy side.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to sauté the spinach quickly to avoid overcooking. You want it just wilted, not mushy.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. Pre-washed baby spinach works great for convenience.
- Adjust the garlic and lemon juice to taste—more garlic for a stronger flavor or extra lemon juice for brightness.
Conclusion
Sautéing spinach on the Arteflame grill adds a whole new level of flavor to this simple dish. The butter and garlic create a rich base, while the lemon adds a fresh tang. The result is a healthy, flavorful side that’s ready in minutes and pairs perfectly with any grilled meal.
Variations
1. Spinach with Parmesan
- Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for a rich, savory twist.
2. Garlic Spinach with Pine Nuts
- Toss in some toasted pine nuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.
3. Spicy Sautéed Spinach
- Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a sliced fresh chili pepper for a spicy kick.
4. Creamy Spinach
- Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a creamier, richer version.
5. Spinach with Mushrooms
- Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic before adding the spinach for a heartier side dish.
Best Pairings
- Beverage: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- Side: Grilled salmon or steak
- Dessert: Fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait