1 Serving Spinach, Creamed is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be easily incorporated into your diet. With only 80 calories per serving, creamed spinach is a great choice for those looking to eat healthy and watch their weight.
Not only is creamed spinach low in calories, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Spinach is loaded with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, C, and K, calcium, and iron. Creamed spinach is also a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time.
In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of spinach, tasty ways to incorporate creamed spinach in your diet, and a quick and easy recipe to make it at home.
Nutritional Value of Creamed Spinach
One serving of creamed spinach contains approximately 80 calories, 5 grams of fat, and 5 grams of protein. It also provides 20% of your daily recommended intake of calcium, 35% of vitamin A, and 50% of vitamin K. Calcium is essential for healthy bones and teeth, while vitamin A promotes good vision and immune function. Vitamin K plays a key role in blood clotting and bone health. In addition to these key nutrients, creamed spinach also contains small amounts of iron, vitamin C, and folate.
Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is widely recognized as a superfood due to its many health benefits. Some of these benefits include: 1. Lowering blood pressure - Spinach is high in potassium, which has been shown to help lower blood pressure levels. 2. Improving bone health - The vitamin K in spinach is essential for building strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
Tasty Ways to Incorporate Creamed Spinach in Your Diet
Creamed spinach is a versatile dish that can be used in many different ways to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. Here are some tasty ideas to get you started: 1. Serve it as a side dish with grilled fish or chicken 2. Use it as a topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
Quick and Easy Creamed Spinach Recipe
Making creamed spinach at home is quick and easy. Here's a simple recipe to try: Ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter, 1 tablespoon flour, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, 10 oz frozen spinach (thawed and drained), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Creamed Spinach as a Side Dish
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that pairs well with many different main courses. Here are some ideas to get you started: 1. Grilled steak 2. Roasted chicken
Variations of Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach can be customized to suit your tastes and preferences. Here are some variations to try: 1. Add garlic and red pepper flakes for a little kick 2. Substitute heavy cream for the milk for a richer flavor
How to Make Creamed Spinach Healthier
If you're looking to make creamed spinach even healthier, here are some tips to try: 1. Use low-fat milk or almond milk instead of whole milk 2. Reduce the amount of butter or use a substitute, such as olive oil
Spinach Benefits for Weight Loss
Spinach is a great food for weight loss due to its low calorie and high fiber content. Eating spinach can help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time, which can help curb cravings and prevent overeating. Additionally, spinach is high in water content, which can help keep you hydrated and flush out toxins from your system.
Storage Tips for Creamed Spinach
If you have leftover creamed spinach, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you want to freeze creamed spinach, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then heat on the stove or in the microwave.
Creamed Spinach Recipe for Thanksgiving
Creamed spinach is a delicious and nutritious side dish that is perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. Here's a recipe to try: Ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter, 1 tablespoon flour, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, 10 oz frozen spinach (thawed and drained), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
FAQs About Creamed Spinach and Its Nutritional Value
1. How many calories are in one serving of creamed spinach?
One serving of creamed spinach contains 80 calories.
2. Is creamed spinach a healthy side dish?
Creamed spinach can be a healthy side dish when made with fresh spinach, low-fat milk or cream, and no added sugars or unhealthy fats. However, some recipes may be higher in calories and fat, so it's important to check the ingredients and nutrition information.
3. What is the nutritional value of creamed spinach?
Creamed spinach contains many essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. However, it can also be high in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol, depending on the recipe and ingredients used.
4. Can creamed spinach be made vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, creamed spinach can be made vegan or dairy-free by using a non-dairy milk or cream substitute, such as almond milk or coconut cream. Some recipes also use tofu or cashews to create a creamy texture.
5. What are some healthy toppings or additions to creamed spinach?
Adding roasted garlic, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can add flavor and nutrition to creamed spinach. Additionally, using fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley can give the dish a burst of fresh flavor and antioxidants.