Looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious side dish that comes together in no time? This easy sautéed mushrooms with spinach recipe is the perfect solution! It’s packed with flavor and made with just a handful of ingredients. Mushrooms and spinach complement each other beautifully, with the earthy mushrooms providing a savory depth and the spinach adding a fresh, vibrant note. This dish comes together in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal or a nutritious side for your favorite main course. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, pasta, or a hearty salad, this easy sautéed mushroom and spinach dish will never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This dish is incredibly simple to prepare and takes just about 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect when you need a fast side to complement your main course.

2. Healthy and Nutritious

With fresh spinach and mushrooms, this recipe is a great way to add more vegetables to your meal. Mushrooms are low in calories and packed with nutrients, while spinach provides a healthy dose of iron and vitamins.

3. Customizable

You can easily adjust this recipe based on your preferences. Add extra herbs, swap butter for olive oil, or skip the balsamic vinegar to make it your own.

4. Flavorful

The combination of garlic, thyme, and balsamic vinegar creates a rich, savory flavor profile that enhances the natural tastes of the mushrooms and spinach.

5. Versatile

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals, from grilled meats to pasta dishes. It’s also great as a light snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

Fresh mushrooms, sliced
Fresh spinach, washed and chopped
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Salt
Black pepper
Dried or fresh thyme (optional)
Butter (optional)
Balsamic vinegar (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

Add Protein: Top this dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a fried egg for a complete meal.
Extra Flavor: Try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dash of soy sauce for more depth of flavor.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Vegan Option: Skip the butter and use extra olive oil for a vegan-friendly version.
Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different taste and texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms. Wash and chop the spinach to prepare it for cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spinach

Once the mushrooms are browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts down.

Step 4: Season the Dish

Season the mushrooms and spinach with salt, pepper, and thyme if you’re using it. Stir in the butter and balsamic vinegar (if using) and continue cooking for one more minute to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the sautéed mushrooms and spinach to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For best results, use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding, which can cause the vegetables to steam instead of sauté.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a lovely tang and sweetness to balance the earthiness of the mushrooms, but it’s optional.
Adjust Cooking Time: You can adjust the cooking time depending on how tender you like your mushrooms. If you prefer them more well-done, let them cook for an additional few minutes.
Use Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, fresh spinach will provide the best texture and flavor in this dish.

How to Serve

This sautéed mushroom and spinach dish makes a great side dish for a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted salmon for a well-rounded meal. It’s also delicious on top of pasta or as part of a hearty vegetable bowl. For a lighter option, serve it with a simple salad or as an appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat the mushrooms and spinach in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little olive oil or butter to help revive the flavors and prevent them from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in place of fresh spinach. Be sure to thaw and drain it before cooking.

2. Can I skip the balsamic vinegar?

Absolutely! The balsamic vinegar is optional, but it does add a nice balance of acidity and sweetness to the dish.

3. Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes, you can use any type of mushroom, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello, depending on your preference.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to customize the dish.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the mushrooms and spinach in advance and reheat them just before serving.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers to give it a little heat.

7. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic adds the best flavor, you can substitute garlic powder if needed. Start with about 1/2 teaspoon.

8. Can I use vegetable broth instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth for a lower-fat version of this dish.

9. How do I know when the spinach is done?

Spinach wilts very quickly. Once it has wilted and reduced in size, it’s ready.

10. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese would complement the mushrooms and spinach beautifully.

Conclusion

This easy sautéed mushrooms with spinach recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that can complement a wide variety of meals. The combination of earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, sautéed with garlic, thyme, and a splash of balsamic vinegar, creates a perfect balance of savory and slightly tangy flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this dish is a great addition to any weeknight dinner. Whether you enjoy it as a side or want to top it on your favorite main dish, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!