Sautéed spinach with pine nuts

This sautéed spinach with pine nuts features the nutty flavor of coconut oil and toasted pine nuts, combined with fresh spinach for a quick and nutritious side dish. It's simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

24 Jan 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp coconut oil
1 cup spinach
1/4 oz pine nuts
Sautéed spinach with pine nuts

This simple yet delightful recipe for Coconut Oil Sautéed Spinach with Pine Nuts is perfect for a quick, nutritious side dish. Combining the rich, nutty flavor of coconut oil and pine nuts with the earthy taste of spinach creates a delicious dish that's both easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. Measure out the coconut oil, fresh spinach, and pine nuts.
2. Heat the Oil: Place a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the skillet and let it melt and heat up, ensuring the whole base of the skillet is coated evenly with the oil.
3. Toast the Pine Nuts: Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), add 1/4 ounce of pine nuts to the skillet. Stir frequently and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove the toasted pine nuts from the skillet and set them aside on a separate plate.
4. Sauté the Spinach: In the same skillet, add 1 cup of fresh spinach. Stir the spinach frequently. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and becomes soft. If the skillet starts to dry out, you can add a small splash of water to help with the wilting process.
5. Combine and Cook: Once the spinach is wilted, return the toasted pine nuts to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure the flavors combine well and the dish is heated through.
6. Season to Taste: Optionally, you can add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate any added seasonings.
7. Serve Immediately: Transfer the sautéed spinach and pine nuts to a serving dish and serve immediately. This dish makes an excellent side for almost any meal or can be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy snack.

In just a few minutes, you've created a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to complement your main course. The combination of coconut oil, spinach, and pine nuts provides a healthy mix of fats, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.

Sautéed spinach with pine nuts FAQ:

How long does it take to sauté spinach?

Sautéing spinach takes about 3-5 minutes. You want to cook it until it wilts and softens, but be careful not to overcook it.

Can I store leftover sautéed spinach?

You can store leftover sautéed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

What can I use instead of coconut oil?

You can substitute coconut oil with olive oil or butter for a different flavor profile, though this may alter the taste slightly.

How do I know when the pine nuts are toasted?

Pine nuts are toasted when they turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma, typically after about 2-3 minutes of sautéing. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Can I use other nuts instead of pine nuts?

Yes, you can use other nuts like walnuts or almonds as a substitute for pine nuts. Just be sure to toast them in the same way for optimal flavor.

Tips:

- Make sure to wash and thoroughly dry your spinach before cooking to avoid excess water in your pan, which can cause the spinach to steam rather than sauté.

- Toast the pine nuts lightly before adding them to the spinach for an enhanced, deeper flavor. Simply heat them in a dry pan over medium heat until they turn golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

- If you prefer a bit more flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish.

- Don't overcrowd the pan with spinach; it cooks down significantly, so start with enough to cover the bottom of your pan.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 1.84g
Carbohydrates 1.83g
Fiber 0.74g
Sugar 0.38g
Fat 18g

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