If you’re looking for a dish that combines comforting creaminess with a delightful crunch, the Creamed Spinach with Toasted Almonds Recipe is an absolute must-try. This version elevates classic creamed spinach by adding the nutty warmth of toasted almonds, offering a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s rich, velvety, and brings that fresh, green vibrancy from spinach to your plate in the most indulgent way possible. Whether you’re serving it as a side to your favorite roast or simply craving a cozy vegetable dish, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each element, from the fresh baby spinach to the creamy Parmesan and crunchy almonds, plays a crucial role in making this dish truly special.
- ¼ cup almonds: Toasted and chopped for a nutty crunch that elevates the creamed spinach.
- 20 ounces fresh baby spinach: Tender, vibrant leaves form the heart of this dish and bring a fresh green color.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps build the creamy base.
- 1¾ cups heavy whipping cream: The creamy powerhouse that makes everything luscious and smooth.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth.
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg: A whisper of warm spice that elevates the creamy sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings umami richness and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
How to Make Creamed Spinach with Toasted Almonds Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Start by trimming the longer stems from the spinach leaves and tearing the larger leaves into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This not only ensures even cooking but makes the spinach easier to enjoy in every creamy bite.
Step 2: Simmer the Cream Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, heavy cream, nutmeg, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle low boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer, stirring often for about 15 minutes until it thickens and reduces—a process that concentrates the flavors and creates that luxurious base.
Step 3: Incorporate Parmesan Cheese
Once your cream mixture has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. It melts into the sauce, enriching it further and adding a perfect savory note that complements the spinach beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Spinach in the Cream Sauce
Add the prepared spinach to the cream mixture, cooking and stirring often until the spinach wilts, absorbs some of the sauce, and the sauce thickens even more. This step melds everything together into that irresistible creamed texture we all adore.
Step 5: Add the Toasted Almonds
Sprinkle the toasted, chopped almonds on top right before serving. Their crunchy texture and nutty flavor add a delightful contrast to the silky spinach, making each forkful sing with layers of taste and mouthfeel.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Now all that’s left is to dig in and savor every creamy, crunchy bite of this fantastic Creamed Spinach with Toasted Almonds Recipe.
How to Serve Creamed Spinach with Toasted Almonds Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and texture, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a little extra grated Parmesan on top. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a lovely, fruity richness if you want to dress it up.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with hearty main courses such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. It also complements vegetarian mains like mushroom risotto or stuffed mushrooms, providing a creamy counterpoint that adds comfort to any plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the creamed spinach in mini ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties or spoon it over polenta or mashed potatoes to transform simple sides into something exceptional. You can even stuff it into warm puff pastry for a fun appetizer twist that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This Creamed Spinach with Toasted Almonds Recipe doesn’t freeze as well due to the cream, which can separate when reheated. If you must freeze, store it without the almonds and add fresh toasted almonds when serving.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid microwave reheating for best texture, and add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce seems too thick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh baby spinach provides the best texture and flavor, frozen spinach can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess water diluting the creamy sauce.
Are walnuts or pine nuts good substitutes for almonds?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pine nuts toasted and chopped bring their unique nutty flavors to the dish and work beautifully as alternatives to almonds.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and coconut cream. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ somewhat from the original version.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead for a party?
Yes! Prepare the creamed spinach up to the point before adding toasted almonds. Keep it chilled and bring it to a gentle heat before serving, adding fresh toasted nuts just before presenting.
Can I add garlic or onions to the recipe?
For extra flavor, you can sauté minced garlic or finely chopped onions in butter before adding the cream mixture. This gives the dish a wonderful aromatic depth without overpowering the spinach.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and special about this Creamed Spinach with Toasted Almonds Recipe. It beautifully balances rich creaminess with crunchy texture and fresh greens. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite side to brighten up any meal. Once you experience those layers of flavor and that irresistible texture, it just might become your go-to dish for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Print
Creamed Spinach with Toasted Almonds Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamed Spinach with Toasted Almonds is a rich and comforting side dish featuring fresh baby spinach cooked in a creamy, nutmeg-scented sauce, topped with crunchy toasted almonds for added texture and flavor. Perfect for holiday dinners or a cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Nuts
- ¼ cup almonds (or walnuts or pine nuts; toasted & chopped)
Vegetables
- 20 ounces fresh baby spinach
Dairy & Seasonings
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1¾ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Spinach: Trim the longer stems from the spinach leaves and tear the leaves into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and easier incorporation into the creamy sauce.
- Make Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine butter, heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring often, for about 15 minutes until the sauce is reduced and thickened.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly to enrich the sauce and add a savory depth of flavor.
- Cook Spinach: Add the prepared spinach to the saucepan and cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts, absorbs some of the cream mixture, and the sauce thickens further.
- Top with Nuts: Sprinkle the chopped, toasted almonds over the creamed spinach to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a side dish to complement your main course and enjoy the rich, creamy, and flavorful creamed spinach.
Notes
- Toast the almonds (or chosen nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and coconut cream, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Season to taste since Parmesan and salt levels can affect overall saltiness.
- Serve immediately as the sauce thickens more upon cooling.
