Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatility: This dish complements grilled meats, pasta, or can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal.
- Rich Flavor: The caramelized onions add a depth of sweetness that balances the savory mushrooms and spinach.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, it’s both convenient and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Olive oil
- Yellow onions
- Balsamic vinegar
- Mushrooms (button or your choice)
- Fresh spinach
- Half-and-half
- Shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt
Directions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they begin to brown. Reduce heat to medium, sprinkle with salt, and continue cooking until deep brown and caramelized. Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, heat additional olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook on low heat until just wilted.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: Pour half-and-half into the skillet with the mushrooms and spinach, bringing it to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer, add shredded Parmesan cheese and salt, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Serve: Return the caramelized onions to the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients. Adjust the sauce consistency as needed with additional half-and-half or Parmesan. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
- Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of half-and-half to maintain the creamy consistency.
FAQs
How can I prevent the onions from burning while caramelizing?
Maintain a moderate heat and stir the onions regularly. If they start to stick, deglaze the pan with a small amount of water or broth.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
What types of mushrooms work best in this recipe?
Button mushrooms are recommended, but cremini or shiitake mushrooms can also be used for a richer flavor.
Is there a substitute for half-and-half?
A mixture of equal parts heavy cream and milk can be used as a substitute for half-and-half.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based cream and Parmesan alternatives, and ensure the olive oil is suitable for vegan diets.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, prepare the components separately and combine them when ready to serve. Reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.
What main courses pair well with this side dish?
It complements grilled meats, pasta dishes, or can be served over rice or quinoa.
How do I adjust the thickness of the cream sauce?
For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce. To thin it, add more half-and-half or a splash of broth.
Can I omit the cheese for a lighter option?
Yes, omitting the Parmesan will result in a lighter sauce, though it will be less creamy and flavorful.
How do I reheat leftovers without the sauce separating?
Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring gently, and add a small amount of half-and-half to help the sauce emulsify.
Conclusion
Sautéed Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions is a delightful dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether served alongside your favorite entrée or enjoyed on its own, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Sautéed Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onion
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Sautéed Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions is a savory, creamy side dish made with earthy mushrooms, tender spinach, and sweet caramelized onions in a light Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, pasta, or as a standalone vegetarian delight.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or choice variety)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup half-and-half
- ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- aramelize the Onions:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add onions and cook, stirring often, until browned. Reduce heat to medium, add a pinch of salt, and continue until deeply caramelized.
- Deglaze with balsamic vinegar, scraping up browned bits. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat.
- Add mushrooms, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and cook until tender and moisture evaporates.
- Wilt the Spinach:
- Add spinach to the skillet with the mushrooms, stirring until just wilted.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce:
- Add half-and-half to the skillet and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer, stir in Parmesan cheese, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return caramelized onions to the skillet, stirring to combine. Adjust sauce consistency if needed. Serve warm.
Notes
- Substitutions: Use coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan for a vegan option.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Tip: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of half-and-half to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: : 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
