Lighter creamed spinach alternatives
You can achieve creamy texture without heavy cream using milk or Greek yogurt combined with a thickener like a small roux or pureed vegetables. The goal is richness without heaviness.
Approach:
- Sauté garlic and onion in butter or oil, add cooked and drained spinach, then stir in a simple thickener: 1 tablespoon flour cooked in the fat for a roux, or a splash of milk whisked with a cornstarch slurry.
- Simmer until slightly thickened, then remove from heat and stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese for creaminess.
- Add grated Parmesan for depth and salt to taste.
Variations and tips:
- Use pureed cauliflower or white beans for a dairy-free creamy base.
- If using yogurt, add after removing from heat to avoid curdling.
- Season with nutmeg or black pepper for a classic flavor profile.
This method yields a velvety side that’s lighter but still rich enough to accompany steaks, chicken, or fish.