Dish

Espinacas a la catalana

Catalan Spinach

Espinacas a la catalana is made by sautéing fresh spinach with garlic, pine nuts, raisins, and high-quality olive oil. The dish is typically served as a side dish or as a main course with a piece of crusty bread. The spinach has a rich and savory flavor that is complemented by the sweetness of the raisins and the crunch of the pine nuts. This dish is perfect for vegetarians and those who want to add more greens to their diet.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Spanish cuisine

Appetizer

Origins and history

Espinacas a la catalana has been a staple dish in the Catalonia region of Spain for centuries. The dish is often served during the winter months when spinach is in season. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is a hallmark of Catalan cuisine.

Dietary considerations

This dish is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. It is also gluten-free and dairy-free. However, it contains nuts and raisins, so it may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Variations

Variations of this dish may include different nuts such as almonds or walnuts. Some chefs may also add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the dish to give it a tangy flavor. However, the traditional recipe calls for pine nuts and raisins.

Presentation and garnishing

When making this dish, be sure to use fresh spinach and high-quality olive oil. The garlic should be sautéed until fragrant but not browned. The pine nuts and raisins should be added at the end of cooking to prevent them from burning. To garnish, sprinkle some pine nuts and raisins on top of the dish.

Tips & Tricks

To make this dish even more flavorful, you can add some chopped onions or tomatoes to the sauté. You can also experiment with different types of nuts to find your favorite variation.

Side-dishes

This dish pairs well with a full-bodied red wine such as Tempranillo or Garnacha. It can also be served with a glass of sherry or a dark beer. As a side dish, it goes well with roasted meats or fish.

Drink pairings

Espinacas a la catalana is typically served with a full-bodied red wine such as Tempranillo or Garnacha. It can also be served with a glass of sherry or a dark beer.