As gardeners, we take pride in the fresh, nutritious produce we grow; home-grown spinach is no exception. This leafy green is not only easy to grow but also incredibly versatile in the kitchen. But do you want to know a fun(ish) fact? Contrary to popular belief, spinach is not exceptionally high in iron. The misconception originated from a decimal point error in the 1870s, where the iron content was overstated by ten times. However, spinach is still a good source of iron and other essential nutrients.

To make up for that, though, a more promising fun fact is that in 2021, NASA astronauts successfully grew and harvested spinach in space for the first time. This achievement is crucial for long-duration space missions, as it provides a source of fresh produce and helps recycle the air and water within the spacecraft.

So if astronauts can grow spinach in space, you can do it back here on earth! Whether you’ve just harvested your first crop or have an abundance of spinach ready to be enjoyed, here are some delightful ways to incorporate this superfood into your meals.

• Raw and refreshing: Spinach is a classic choice for salads. Pair baby spinach leaves with your favorite vegetables, fruits, nuts, and dressing for a light and refreshing meal. Try a simple spinach and strawberry salad with a balsamic vinaigrette, or a spinach and goat cheese salad with candied walnuts for a gourmet twist. For a heartier salad, add some grilled chicken or shrimp to your spinach base, along with some quinoa or roasted sweet potatoes for a satisfying and nutrient-packed lunch or dinner.
• Smoothie sensation: Toss a handful of fresh spinach into your morning smoothie for an extra boost of nutrients. The mild flavor of spinach blends seamlessly with fruits like bananas, berries, and mangoes. You can even add a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt for a more filling breakfast or post-gardening snack. Experiment with different smoothie combinations, such as spinach, pineapple, and coconut milk for a tropical twist, or spinach, apple, and ginger for a refreshing and zingy drink.
• Sautéed to perfection: Quickly sautéing spinach in a bit of olive oil and garlic is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this green. Serve as a side dish alongside your favorite proteins or toss with pasta for a quick and easy meal. Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as red pepper flakes or lemon zest, to customize the flavor profile. For a Mediterranean-inspired dish, sauté spinach with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, and serve over quinoa or couscous. You can also make creamed spinach!
• Spinach-stuffed delights: Use spinach as a filling for stuffed pasta, eggplant rollatini, spinach pie, or as a stuffing for chicken breasts or fish fillets. Combine cooked and chopped spinach with ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and your choice of seasonings for a delectable and nutrient-packed filling. For a vegetarian option, stuff Portobello mushrooms with a spinach and breadcrumb mixture, then bake until golden and crispy.
• Baked into treats: Spinach can even be incorporated into baked goods for a sneaky serving of veggies. Add finely chopped spinach to quiches, frittatas, or savory muffins for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also blend spinach into the batter for cakes or quick breads, like a spinach and banana bread, for a unique and healthy twist. For a fun and kid-friendly treat, make spinach and cheese pinwheels using puff pastry, chopped spinach, and your favorite cheese.
• Soup’s on: Spinach adds a vibrant color and a boost of nutrients to soups and stews. Stir fresh spinach into a hearty minestrone, a creamy potato soup, or a classic French onion soup just before serving. The heat from the soup will gently wilt the spinach, making it tender and flavorful. For a comforting and filling meal, make a spinach and lentil soup, seasoned with cumin, coriander, and a touch of lemon juice.
• Dip it: Spinach dips are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Blend cooked spinach with sour cream, mayonnaise, and your favorite seasonings for a cool and creamy dip that pairs perfectly with vegetables, crackers, or bread. Or, try a warm spinach and artichoke dip, baked until bubbly and golden, for a comforting appetizer. For a healthier twist, make a spinach and white bean dip, blended with garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil, for a protein-packed and flavorful spread.

As gardeners, we have the unique opportunity to enjoy spinach at its freshest, straight from our own backyard plots. You’ll never tire of this nutritious and delicious green by experimenting with these various methods. Plus, with its impressive nutrient profile, including vitamins A, C, and K, and folate, iron, and calcium, spinach is a true superfood that can help support overall health and well-being.

So, go ahead and plant that extra row of spinach! And who knows, maybe one day you’ll be enjoying your homegrown spinach in space, just like the NASA astronauts!

If you enjoyed this article about enjoying your home-grown spinach, then you’ll love our Spinach Gardening Guide! Take a look, and you’ll find advice on how to grow, harvest, store, and cook from your garden of spinach!