I’ll never forget the first time I tasted creamed spinach. I was at a small, family-owned bistro, sitting at a corner booth with my friends. The dish arrived, and my eyes were immediately drawn to its creamy, velvety texture. It wasn’t just a side dish; it was a revelation. Creamed spinach was the perfect balance of indulgent and fresh. It had the kind of flavor that made you close your eyes and savor the moment.
Since then, I’ve been on a quest to perfect it at home. That search led me to Jamie Oliver’s creamed spinach recipe, which is now my go-to for a foolproof, satisfying version. It’s rich, but not overly heavy. It’s simple yet so flavorful. And trust me, once you taste this version, you’ll be hooked. Let me take you through it.
Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s take on creamed spinach is all about making the dish accessible and comforting. His recipe is straightforward but packed with delicious flavors that elevate the humble spinach to a whole new level. What I love about it is how the cream and garlic marry together with the spinach without overpowering it. Plus, Jamie’s use of Parmesan adds a salty kick that makes the whole thing irresistible.
Here’s what really makes this recipe stand out:
- Creamy texture that’s not too heavy, thanks to his careful balance of cream and milk.
- Garlic and nutmeg bring depth without being too intense.
- Simplicity – you don’t need a ton of ingredients to make something mouthwatering.
Ingredients Needed
This is where Jamie Oliver’s recipe shines. The ingredients are common enough to be pantry staples, yet when combined, they create something extraordinary.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Spinach (about 1kg fresh, or 500g frozen) – the star of the show. Fresh gives a more vibrant flavor, but frozen works too if you’re in a pinch.
- Butter – for richness and to help sauté the garlic and spinach.
- Garlic – adds a nice depth of flavor to balance the creamy elements.
- Milk – helps thin out the cream and adds to the creamy texture.
- Double cream – the secret ingredient for that luscious mouthfeel.
- Parmesan cheese – brings a sharp, salty note that complements the creaminess.
- Nutmeg – just a pinch to enhance the earthiness of the spinach.
- Salt and pepper – to taste.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach
Making Jamie’s creamed spinach is surprisingly easy. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:
- Sauté garlic in butter: Start by melting butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Wilt the spinach: If you’re using fresh spinach, add it to the pan in batches, stirring as it wilts down. If you’re using frozen spinach, simply add it directly to the pan after defrosting and draining the excess water.
- Make the cream sauce: Once the spinach is wilted, pour in the milk and double cream. Stir it all together, then let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
- Add the seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan, nutmeg, and a generous amount of salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it’s thickened to your liking.
- Serve: Spoon your creamy, cheesy spinach into a bowl and serve alongside your favorite main dish.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s break down why these ingredients work so well together:
- Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A and K, and folate. When cooked, it releases more antioxidants, which is a win for your health. However, spinach can be a bit bitter when raw, so cooking it helps mellow out the flavor.
- Butter gives the spinach a rich, silky texture, while also aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A in the spinach.
- Garlic is known for its ability to enhance the umami flavor, adding depth to the dish without overpowering it. It also has health benefits, such as being a natural anti-inflammatory and immune booster.
- Nutmeg is the secret ingredient. A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of cream. It’s often used in dishes that feature dairy, as it helps cut through the heaviness.
- Parmesan cheese not only provides a salty kick but also adds a nutty, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Expert Tips
To get your creamed spinach just right, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcook the spinach: Overcooked spinach can become mushy and lose its fresh flavor. Just wilt it until it’s tender, not soggy.
- Use high-quality cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and have a stronger, richer flavor than pre-grated versions.
- Adjust the cream-to-milk ratio: If you want a richer texture, add more double cream. If you prefer a lighter version, use more milk and less cream.
- Season generously: Creamed spinach needs a bit of salt and pepper to balance out the creaminess. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Make it ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge for a day or two, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie Oliver’s recipe is amazing on its own, there are several ways to tweak it:
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty contrast to the creaminess.
- Try adding some crispy bacon for extra crunch and a salty bite.
- Add some sautéed onions for extra sweetness and depth.
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it creamy without the dairy.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s creamed spinach recipe is a great way to turn a simple side dish into something extraordinary. The balance of cream, garlic, and nutmeg makes it so satisfying. Whether you’re serving it with a roast, steak, or just as a comforting dish on its own, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough for a holiday feast.
FAQs
How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach?
Start by cooking spinach in a pan until wilted. Then make a creamy sauce with butter, cream, garlic, and nutmeg. Mix the spinach with the sauce and cook for a few more minutes.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach For Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid extra moisture.
What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach?
This dish goes great with grilled meats, roasted potatoes, or as a side to a rich pasta dish.