Description
This irresistibly easy Korean spinach side dish is a quick, flavorful addition to any meal. Featuring fresh spinach, garlic, and a savory sesame-soy dressing, it’s a nutritious and vibrant banchan that can be whipped up in minutes. Perfectly balanced with the nutty aroma of toasted sesame oil and seeds, it’s a simple yet authentic taste of Korean home cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 10 ounces fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, chopped (chives can be used)
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Blanch the Spinach: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the fresh spinach and blanch for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until wilted but still vibrant green. Quickly drain and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and preserve color.
- Squeeze Excess Water: Using your hands or a clean kitchen towel, gently squeeze the spinach to remove as much water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely minced garlic, chopped green onions, low-sodium soy sauce, salt, and toasted sesame oil. Stir well to mix all the seasonings evenly.
- Toss Spinach with Dressing: Add the drained spinach to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix everything together until the spinach is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the dressed spinach to a serving dish and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a delightful crunch and aroma. Serve immediately or chilled as a side dish to your favorite Korean meal.
Notes
- For an added depth of flavor, you can lightly toast the sesame seeds yourself before garnishing.
- If you prefer a milder garlic taste, reduce the amount of garlic or use roasted garlic instead.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Chives or green onions can be substituted depending on your availability and taste preference.
- Adjust salt and soy sauce quantities according to your dietary requirements or taste.
