How to Cook Steamed Edamame and Sautéed Spinach

 

Steamed edamame and sautéed spinach are two nutritious and delicious sides that are quick and easy to prepare. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and flavor, making them perfect additions to any meal. Here’s how you can prepare these healthy dishes at home.

**Steamed Edamame**

**Ingredients:**

- 1 pound of edamame (in pods or shelled)

- Water

- Salt (optional)

- Lemon wedges (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Edamame:**

   - If using frozen edamame, no need to thaw them beforehand. Fresh edamame should be rinsed under cold water.

2. **Boil Water:**

   - Fill a pot with enough water to submerge the edamame. Boil water over high heat

3. **Cook the Edamame:**

   - Add the edamame to the boiling water. If you like, add a pinch of salt to the water.

   - Boil the edamame for 3-5 minutes. For fresh edamame, it may take a minute or two longer. 

4. **Drain and Serve:**

   - To stop the cooking process, drain the edamame in a colander and pour cold water over it

   - Transfer the edamame to a bowl and sprinkle with a bit of salt, if desired. Add some lemon slices with it to give it a better flavor, according to your choice

**Tips:**

- Edamame in pods is typically served with the pods intact. Squeeze the beans out of the pods to eat. Shelled edamame is great for salads, stir-fries, or as a snack.

- For added flavor, toss the cooked edamame with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt or your favorite seasoning blend.

**Sautéed Spinach**

**Ingredients:**

- 1 pound of fresh spinach (baby spinach or regular)

- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter

- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Lemon juice (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Spinach:**

   - Rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. If using regular spinach, trim off the tough stems. Baby spinach typically doesn’t need trimming.

2. **Heat the Oil:**

   - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat until hot. If you prefer a richer flavor, use butter; for a lighter option, use olive oil.

3. **Sauté the Garlic:**

   - Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.

4. **Add the Spinach:**

   - Add the spinach to the skillet in batches if necessary, as it will wilt down quickly. Toss the spinach with the garlic and oil to coat evenly.

5. **Cook the Spinach:**

   - Sauté the spinach for 3-5 minutes, until wilted and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

   - Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. **Serve:**

   - Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the spinach to a serving dish. Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top if desired, to add a bright, fresh flavor.

**Tips:**

- For an added nutritional boost, sprinkle the sautéed spinach with a bit of grated Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts before serving.

- Sautéed spinach can be a versatile side dish and pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or tofu. It’s also great as a topping for pasta or as a base for a warm salad.

**Conclusion**

Steamed edamame and sautéed spinach are simple yet flavorful dishes that bring a wealth of nutrition to your table. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or as part of a more elaborate meal. With these easy steps, you can enjoy these healthy sides anytime!