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Spicy Sautéed Spinach

This vibrant spicy sautéed spinach offers an aromatic twist on a classic green side dish. By tempering yellow mustard seeds, garlic, and dried chillies in warm ghee, you create a fragrant base that transforms simple spinach leaves into something truly special. The earthy heat of the spices perfectly complements the natural mineral notes of the flat-leaf spinach, making it an excellent accompaniment to both Asian-inspired feasts and simple grilled proteins.

As a nutritious vegetarian option, this dish is packed with iron and vitamins while remaining incredibly light. It takes less than ten minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick midweek dinner or a healthy addition to a weekend roast. For the best texture, ensure you wash the spinach thoroughly and pat it dry before adding it to the frying pan to maintain that essential sautéed finish.

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Ingredients for Spicy Sautéed Spinach

  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil

  • 1 bunch spring onions, coarsely chopped

  • 2 dried chillies de árbol or 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard seeds

  • 4 bunches flat-leaf spinach, stemmed, very coarsely chopped

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

Heat ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add spring onions, chillies, garlic, and mustard seeds. Cook, stirring often, until garlic begins to brown and mustard seeds pop, about 1 minute. Add spinach to skillet by the handful, allowing it to wilt between additions. Cook, tossing often, until spinach is tender, 5-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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