Spinach & cumin raita

Spinach & cumin raita is a refreshing side dish that combines wilted spinach with garlic, ground cumin, and creamy Greek yogurt. This simple recipe offers earthy flavors with a hint of warmth, making it a perfect complement to Indian meals.

05 Jan 2026
Cook time 2 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp ground cumin
3 cups spinach
3/4 cup greek yogurt

Spinach & cumin raita is a refreshing and nutritious side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of Indian meals. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the earthiness of spinach with the warm, aromatic notes of cumin, all bound together by creamy Greek yogurt. It's easy to make and can elevate any meal with its unique taste and texture.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly.
- Mince or finely chop the garlic cloves.

2. Cooking the Spinach:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant and golden.
- Add the ground cumin to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing the flavors to combine with the oil and garlic.

3. Wilt the Spinach:
- Add the spinach to the skillet, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the spinach just until it has wilted down, which should take around 2-3 minutes.

4. Combine with Yogurt:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the spinach mixture cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with the cooled spinach mixture.
- Stir well until the spinach and yogurt are fully combined and the spices are evenly distributed.

5. Season and Serve:
- Taste the raita and add salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve the spinach and cumin raita immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, Spinach & cumin raita is a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you're serving it alongside a spicy curry or enjoying it as a standalone snack, this refreshing dish is bound to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious harmony of spinach and cumin in every bite.

Spinach & cumin raita FAQ:

How long does it take to prepare Spinach & Cumin Raita?

Preparation and cooking of Spinach & Cumin Raita take about 10-15 minutes. This includes washing the spinach, sautéing the garlic and cumin, wilting the spinach, and combining with Greek yogurt.

How should I store leftover raita?

Store leftover Spinach & Cumin Raita in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Stir well before serving if the ingredients separate.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with another type of yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with regular plain yogurt. However, the consistency may be thinner, so you might want to adjust the amount to achieve your desired creaminess.

What pan size is recommended for cooking the spinach?

A large skillet (about 10-12 inches in diameter) is recommended to cook the spinach evenly and allow enough room for wilting without overcrowding.

How do I know when the spinach is properly cooked?

The spinach is properly cooked when it has wilted and reduced in volume, which typically takes 2-3 minutes. It should be tender but still vibrant green.

Tips:

- Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the spinach before cooking to remove any dirt or grit.

- Use fresh cumin seeds and toast them lightly in a dry pan before grinding to enhance their flavor.

- Let the raita chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and cumin to suit your taste preferences.

- For a thicker consistency, you can strain the Greek yogurt using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove excess whey.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 36kcal
Protein 3.35g
Carbohydrates 2.24g
Fiber 0.35g
Sugar 1.29g
Fat 4.28g

Spinach & cumin raita