Garlic and Chili Sautéed Spinach with Lemon Zest
A quick sauté of fresh spinach with garlic, chili flakes, and lemon zest to invigorate and provide nutrient-rich support during fatigue and muscle aches. This Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian recipe (anti-inflammatory, vegan), ready in about 12 minutes, pairs fresh spinach leaves, garlic cloves, extra virgin olive oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 90 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a quick salad. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 10 oz, washed and trimmed fresh spinach leaves
- 4, thinly sliced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 tsp, finely grated lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp, freshly ground black pepper
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Equipment for this recipe
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Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes, sauté for 1-2 minutes until garlic is golden and fragrant, careful not to burn.
- Step 2: Add 10 oz fresh spinach leaves to the skillet, tossing with tongs to coat in the garlic oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes until spinach wilts but still bright green.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to combine all flavors.
- Step 4: Serve immediately as a vibrant side dish packed with vitamins and antioxidants.









