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Spinach

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a leafy green vegetable, rich in vitamins and minerals, and widely regarded for its numerous health benefits. Native to central and western Asia, this versatile plant has a slightly bitter taste and can be eaten raw or cooked, making it a popular ingredient in numerous dishes such as salads, soups, and pasta. Incorporating spinach into one's diet supplies vitamins A, C, K, iron, calcium, and folic acid, as well as containing compounds like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to promote eye health. With its abundance of nutrients and culinary applications, spinach is an ideal addition to various meals for home cooks and consumers.
#10
IN FRESH VEGETABLES
23
CAL / 100G
$0.23
AVG / OZ
spinach
53%
CARBS
6%
FAT
42%
PROTEIN
Spinach FAQ
Cooking with spinach can be quite straightforward, yet does possess a couple of challenges. A major conundrum people often face is the significant volume reduction when cooked. Raw spinach may seem like a lot but once cooked, it wilts down to a much smaller amount. Hence, many folks underestimate the right amount needed for a recipe. It's often advised to start with a generous quantity when planning to cook it. Getting the most out of your spinach means taking full advantage of its nutritional profile. Cooked spinach provides more vitamins and minerals than its raw counterpart, due to the body's ability to better absorb these nutrients from cooked foods. However, there is a risk of overcooking. To avoid this, blanch or steam spinach only for a couple of minutes to retain its nutritional content and vibrant color. Many people usually only use the spinach leaves and discard the stems. However, the stems are completely edible and add a nice crunch to the dish. Next time you're cooking with spinach, don't throw away those stems. Consider using them too, they are just as nutritious! For a hidden trick: to freshen wilted spinach, soak it in ice water for about 10-20 minutes.
Does spinach shrink when cooked?
What's the best way to wash spinach?
Which is healthier: raw or cooked spinach?
Do I need to remove spinach stems before cooking?
Why does spinach turn bitter when cooked?
Can spinach be eaten after being frozen?
Can you substitute fresh spinach for frozen spinach?
Why does spinach cause teeth to feel weird?
Can you cook spinach in a microwave?
Should you add salt before cooking spinach?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does spinach expire?
Unopened spinach, kept refrigerated, tends to last for about 10 - 14 days. If there's a printed date on the package, it's usually a sell-by date and not an expiration date, so you can safely consume the spinach a few days after this date if it has been properly stored. However, once the spinach package is opened, it’s best to consume it within seven days. Frozen spinach can last up to 8-10 months in the freezer but remember to never refreeze spinach once it's been defrosted.
How do you tell if spinach is bad?
Spoiled spinach is often quite noticeable. If it develops a funny smell, has a slimy texture or the color darkens significantly, it’s gone bad. Also, if its leaves start getting yellow or brown spots, it's time to toss it.
Tips for storing spinach to extend shelf life
• Always keep spinach refrigerated. This helps slow down the oxidation process and extends its shelf life. • Don't wash the spinach before storing it. Moisture speeds up the wilting and rotting process. So, wash it right before you're about to use it. • To store spinach for long, you can freeze it. First, blanch it in boiling water for two minutes, cool it under cold water, drain it well, pack in airtight bags or containers and then freeze. • When keeping spinach in the fridge, if possible store it in a perforated bag to allow it to breathe and avoid moisture accumulation. • When defrosting frozen spinach, put it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
EXPIRES WITHIN
8 - 15
DAYS
Equivalents
Health Info
Macros
1g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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