Sauteed spinach with bacon

Sautéed spinach with bacon combines crispy bacon and tender spinach, enhanced by crunchy toasted almonds for a flavorful side dish. This quick recipe is perfect for any meal.

19 Jan 2026
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
2 bacon strips
4 cups spinach
1/3 cup almonds
Sauteed spinach with bacon

Sauteed spinach with bacon is a quick, delicious, and nutritious dish that can be served as a side or even eaten on its own. The combination of crispy bacon and tender spinach, paired with the crunch of almonds, makes for a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly.
- Cut bacon strips into small pieces.
- Measure out 1/3 cup of almonds. If they are whole almonds, chop or slice them.
2. Cook the Bacon:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the bacon pieces to the skillet. Cook until the bacon is crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is done, use a slotted spoon to remove the pieces and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
3. Toast the Almonds:
- Using the same skillet, add the almonds to the remaining bacon fat in the pan.
- Toast the almonds over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Remove the toasted almonds from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Cook the Spinach:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil is heated, add the spinach to the skillet in batches if necessary, allowing it to wilt down before adding more.
- Sauté the spinach until it is fully wilted and tender, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Combine Ingredients:
- Once the spinach is wilted, return the crispy bacon and toasted almonds to the skillet.
- Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring the spinach is well-coated with the bacon and almonds.
6. Serve:
- Remove from heat and transfer the sautéed spinach with bacon to a serving dish.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the combination of tender spinach, crunchy almonds, and crispy bacon.

With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you've created a flavorful and wholesome dish that will be a hit at any meal. This sauteed spinach with bacon is a perfect example of how simplicity can yield incredible taste.

Sauteed spinach with bacon FAQ:

How long should I sauté the spinach?

Sauté the spinach for about 2-3 minutes until it is fully wilted and tender. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Can I store leftovers, and if so, how?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore texture.

What can I substitute for bacon if I want a vegetarian option?

For a vegetarian option, you can use smoked tempeh or mushrooms to provide a similar savory flavor without the meat.

Is it necessary to toast the almonds?

Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and crunch. However, you can skip this step if you're short on time, but they may be less flavorful.

What type of spinach works best for this recipe?

Fresh baby spinach is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness and mild flavor. Avoid using frozen spinach as it will not provide the same texture.

Tips:

- For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

- Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to get rid of any dirt or grit.

- Toast the almonds in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the dish; this will enhance their flavor and crunch.

- If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pan when you sauté the bacon.

- Do not overcook the spinach; it should be wilted but still vibrant green to maintain its nutrients and taste.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 120kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 3.14g
Fiber 1.72g
Sugar 0.56g
Fat 13g

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