Sauteed Spinach Mushroom Recipe – Easy and Flavorful Side Dish for Any Dinner
Few side dishes are as simple, nutritious, and versatile as sautéed spinach with mushrooms. This quick recipe transforms fresh spinach and earthy mushrooms into a tender, savory dish that complements everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes on the stove, you get a vibrant side packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether paired with grilled chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables, sautéed spinach and mushrooms add a fresh, earthy note that brightens up any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Sautéed Spinach Mushroom Recipe
This dish is the perfect balance of tender greens and hearty mushrooms cooked with garlic and a touch of seasoning. It’s healthy, low-calorie, and loaded with vitamins and antioxidants from both spinach and mushrooms. Plus, it’s incredibly easy and fast to make—no marathon of chopping or complicated steps required. It fits into vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo diets effortlessly. Even picky eaters tend to enjoy this combo because of its simple yet rich flavors, making it an ideal side for any dinner.
What You’ll Need – Ingredients List
The beauty of sautéed spinach and mushrooms is its simplicity, relying on fresh, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a savory, satisfying dish.
- 10 oz fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Nutritional Benefits at a Glance
This sautéed spinach and mushroom side is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, while mushrooms provide important antioxidants and B vitamins. The olive oil adds healthy fats that support nutrient absorption and heart health.
- Calories: ~90 per serving
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: Variable based on added salt
How Much Time You’ll Need
One of the biggest perks of this recipe is its speed. From prep to plate, you can have a flavorful side ready in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 13–15 minutes
How to Make Sautéed Spinach and Mushrooms – Step-by-Step
Creating this savory side is as simple as heating a pan and letting the ingredients do their magic. Follow these easy steps for perfectly sautéed spinach and mushrooms every time:
- Heat olive oil or vegan butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
- Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring gently until it wilts down.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Drizzle with lemon juice for a fresh finish, then remove from heat and serve immediately.
Ingredient Swaps and Custom Variations
This recipe is very flexible and easy to customize based on your pantry and preferences. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Swap cremini mushrooms for shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor.
- Use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic if in a pinch.
- Add chopped onions or shallots at the start for extra sweetness.
- Stir in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch.
- Finish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for a cheesy touch.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries! This sautéed spinach and mushroom dish reheats well, making it a great make-ahead side or lunch addition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the spinach tender and mushrooms juicy.
What to Serve with Sautéed Spinach and Mushrooms
This side pairs beautifully with a wide range of meals thanks to its mild but flavorful profile. Try it with:
- Grilled or roasted chicken and fish
- Pasta dishes with creamy or tomato-based sauces
- Quinoa or rice bowls for a vegetarian meal
- Vegan lentil loaf or chickpea patties
- Alongside roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
Make It Kid-Friendly
Getting kids to eat their greens can be tricky, but this sautéed spinach and mushrooms recipe offers a mild, tasty option that many little ones enjoy. To make it extra kid-friendly:
- Use less garlic and skip the red pepper flakes to keep flavors mild.
- Chop the mushrooms finely for easier eating.
- Serve alongside a favorite dipping sauce or with mild cheese if dairy is allowed.
- Let kids help stir the pan (with supervision) to get them excited about cooking.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sautéed Spinach and Mushrooms
Sautéed spinach and mushrooms make for a quick, nutritious, and delicious side dish that elevates any meal. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs perfectly with the fresh, slightly sweet taste of spinach, creating a simple yet satisfying combo.
- Use fresh, high-quality spinach and mushrooms for best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook mushrooms in batches if needed for even browning.
- Wilt spinach gently to avoid turning it mushy or watery.
- Season gradually and taste as you go for balanced flavor.
- Add lemon juice last to brighten the dish without overpowering it.
Final Thoughts – Healthy, Quick, and Delicious
Sautéed spinach and mushrooms are the kind of side dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Easy to prepare, nutritious, and bursting with fresh, savory flavor, this recipe elevates simple ingredients into a memorable accompaniment for any meal. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook, it’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles. Try it tonight and enjoy a little green goodness on your plate.