Jamie Oliver’s creamed spinach is a rich, velvety dish that takes spinach to a whole new level. The dish is a creamy, indulgent side that’s perfect for adding depth to your meals. Unlike the usual simple sautéed spinach, this recipe takes it up a notch with a blend of fresh cream, garlic and Parmesan cheese. The result is a luscious, comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with meats like steak or chicken or even just a simple roasted potato.
What sets Jamie’s version apart is the careful balance of flavors and textures. You still get the freshness and slight bitterness of spinach but it’s softened and enveloped in a creamy, garlicky sauce that makes it irresistibly smooth. It’s one of those side dishes that can steal the show, even if it’s not the main course!
Jamie Oliver Creamed Spinach Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Jamie Oliver’s creamed spinach, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you should gather:
- Fresh spinach: The star of the show! Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Butter: Adds richness to the dish. You’ll use this to cook the spinach and make the base for the cream sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are a must. It adds a subtle kick and depth to the creaminess.
- Double cream: This gives the dish that smooth, silky consistency that makes it so comforting.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, salty note and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Nutmeg: A tiny sprinkle goes a long way! Nutmeg adds warmth and a hint of spice that complements the cream.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Simple but necessary to bring the flavors together.
Some variations may include a bit of lemon zest or even a splash of milk but this is the basic list.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:
- Large pan: To cook the spinach and make the creamy sauce. Ideally, a frying pan or skillet that’s wide enough to fit all the spinach comfortably.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the spinach and sauce. It’ll help prevent any sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Sharp knife and chopping board: For mincing the garlic and prepping any other ingredients.
- Ladle or spoon: To serve the finished dish. A spoon works just fine to scoop the spinach out of the pan and onto your plate.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach
Now, let’s get into the actual cooking! Here’s how Jamie does it:
- Prep the spinach: Start by washing the spinach thoroughly. You want to get rid of any dirt or grit. Once clean, roughly chop the spinach to help it wilt more evenly.
- Cook the garlic: In your large pan, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for a minute or two until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; you want it soft, not brown.
- Wilt the spinach: Next, add the spinach in batches. It may look like a lot at first but spinach wilts down quickly. Stir the spinach as it cooks, so it wilts evenly and doesn’t burn.
- Add the cream: Once the spinach is cooked down, pour in the double cream. Stir it all together, letting the cream fully incorporate into the spinach. The sauce should start to thicken a little, creating a luscious, creamy texture.
- Season: Sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of nutmeg and a good crack of black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding an extra richness.
- Simmer and serve: Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken up a bit more. You want the sauce to coat the spinach but still remain creamy and smooth.
And that’s it! You now have a beautiful, rich and creamy side dish that will elevate any meal.
What I Learnt
Making Jamie Oliver’s creamed spinach was a bit of a revelation! First, the balance of flavors is key. The bitterness of the spinach, combined with the creaminess of the sauce and the savory Parmesan, creates something special. The nutmeg might seem like an odd choice at first but it adds a surprising warmth that ties everything together.
Another thing I noticed was how simple the ingredients are, yet how much depth they create when combined. This dish doesn’t require any fancy techniques. just a little patience to cook the spinach down properly and allow the cream to thicken into that perfect sauce.It’s the perfect side dish for nearly any occasion.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach
Jamie Oliver’s creamed spinach is already a delicious dish but there’s always room to make it your own. If you want to elevate the flavors, here are a few tweaks to try:
- Cheese Varieties: Jamie uses a bit of Parmesan but feel free to swap it out for something like Gruyère or even a sharp blue cheese for an extra layer of complexity. You can also mix different cheeses for a richer flavor profile.
- Add Garlic: While the recipe may not call for it, a touch of minced garlic can take your spinach to a whole new level. Sauté it in the butter before adding the spinach for that subtle, aromatic base.
- Cream Alternatives: Instead of heavy cream, you could use crème fraîche or even a mix of milk and cream cheese to create a slightly tangier, lighter version. If you’re looking for something dairy-free, try coconut cream for a tropical twist.
- Spice It Up: Want a little kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a bit of chili flakes to the dish. You can also experiment with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Nuts & Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top adds crunch and richness. It’s a nice contrast to the creamy texture.
- Herb Variations: While Jamie uses a bit of nutmeg and fresh thyme, adding a handful of fresh basil, tarragon or dill can introduce new herbaceous notes to the dish, making it more complex and vibrant.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (or you’re making a batch to keep), here’s how to store Jamie’s creamed spinach:
- Cool Down Quickly: Allow the creamed spinach to cool to room temperature before storing it. You can speed this up by spreading it out on a flat surface like a baking tray. The faster it cools, the less chance there is for bacterial growth.
- Airtight Containers: Store it in an airtight container and it should keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. It’s best to consume it within this time to preserve its freshness.
- Freezing: You can freeze creamed spinach but be mindful that the texture can change a bit when thawed. If you’re okay with a slightly less creamy texture after reheating, freeze it in small portions. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to loosen it up if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it could lead to uneven heating or separation of the cream.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach?
Creamed spinach is rich and comforting, so you’ll want to pair it with something that balances it out. Here are some perfect companions for this dish:
- Steak: There’s something classic about creamed spinach and steak. The rich, velvety spinach complements the meaty, savory flavors beautifully.
- Roast Chicken: If steak’s not your thing, a perfectly roasted chicken would go wonderfully with creamed spinach. The crispy skin and juicy meat pair well with the creamy, herbaceous spinach.
- Grilled Fish: A lightly grilled fish like salmon or cod is a fresh, light contrast to the heaviness of creamed spinach. The flavors balance each other perfectly without overpowering one another.
- Potatoes: You can never go wrong with potatoes! Mashed potatoes, crispy roast potatoes or even simple boiled potatoes can serve as a fantastic base to soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: If you want to go for something lighter and plant-based, grilled asparagus, roasted carrots or sautéed mushrooms add texture and a hint of earthiness, making the meal more vibrant.
- Crispy Bread: A good crusty bread, like a baguette or sourdough, is perfect for sopping up any leftover cream. It’s simple but irresistible.
FAQs
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it gently before serving. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
What Type Of Spinach Is Best For Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach Recipe?
Fresh spinach works best! But you can also use frozen spinach-just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Can I Add Cheese To Jamie Oliver’s Creamed Spinach?
Absolutely! Adding Parmesan or even a bit of cream cheese can give it an extra creamy texture and flavor.
