Grilled Spinach Recipe

I absolutely love this grilled spinach recipe because it’s a quick and healthy way to get my greens with a delicious twist—thanks to that smoky char from the grill and the zesty lemon kick! Plus, the option to sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory umami touch that takes this simple dish to the next level of yum.

I adore the nutritional boon of grilled spinach. You take a pound of fresh spinach leaves, drizzle some olive oil and add a touch of minced garlic.

Simple, right? Yet what results is a dish of such intense flavor and, dare I say, umami, that this is how I most frequently prepare the nutrient-dense green.

Grilled Spinach Recipe Ingredients

–

Fresh Spinach Leaves: Rich in iron and vitamins A, C, and K; high in fiber.

–

Olive Oil: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fat; rich in antioxidants.

–

Garlic: Contains allicin, offers immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

–

Kosher Salt: Enhances flavor; provides essential electrolytes when consumed in moderation.

–

Lemon Juice: Adds a refreshing, zesty flavor; rich in vitamin C.

–

Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory umami flavor; source of calcium and protein (optional).

Grilled Spinach Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound fresh spinach leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

How to Make this Grilled Spinach Recipe

1. Heat your grill to medium-high.

2. Rinse the spinach leaves very well and dry them using a clean towel or salad spinner.

3. In a big mixing bowl, blend together the olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

4. Put the spinach leaves in the bowl. Gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning mixture.

5. Put the grill basket on the grill that has been preheated, or use a grilling mat. Then distribute the spinach across the surface evenly.

6. Cook the spinach on the grill for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, turning it occasionally, until the leaves become wilted and develop a slight char.

7. When grilling spinach, pay close attention to it. You can easily burn it if you’re not careful, and that would not make a great side dish. I keep the heat somewhere between medium and medium-low when grilling spinach.

8. When it is finished cooking, move the spinach to a serving dish.

9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled spinach for added flavor.

10. Consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese to your dish before you serve it to your guests. Doing so will greatly improve the taste of the dish. Serve it immediately after you sprinkle the cheese on top.

Grilled Spinach Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Grill
2. Grill basket or grilling mat
3. Salad spinner or clean towel
4. Big mixing bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Garlic mincer
7. Tongs
8. Serving dish
9. Lemon squeezer (optional)
10. Cheese grater (optional)

FAQ

• Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?For this recipe, we suggest using fresh spinach, as it handles the grilling process much better than other forms. If you must use frozen spinach, however, make sure to defrost it either in the refrigerator overnight or in a microwave, and then to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Grilled spinach is a much desired component in this dish; any extra moisture, however, will lead to soggy spinach.
• What type of grill is best for grilling spinach?A grill, either charcoal or gas, works well. You can also use a grill pan for indoor grilling.
• How long should I grill the spinach?Grill for 2-3 minutes, frequently turning the leaves until they are wilted and have a faint char.
• Is it necessary to use olive oil?Preventing spinach from sticking to the grill requires olive oil, which also serves to enhance the flavor of the greens. If olive oil is unavailable, good substitutes are either avocado oil or grapeseed oil.
• Can I omit the lemon juice?The juice of lemons gives a fresh, sharp taste that harmonizes with the spinach. If you would rather not use it, you might substitute a vinegar of choice.
• Is Parmesan cheese necessary for serving?Adding Parmesan cheese is an option, but it supplies a very nice nutty flavor. Leaving it out or using a vegan substitute for a dairy-free option is also perfectly acceptable.
• How can I prevent spinach from falling through the grill grates?To prevent the spinach from slipping through the grates and to keep it contained, use either a grilling basket or a piece of foil that has been punctured with holes.

Grilled Spinach Recipe Substitutions and Variations

2 tablespoons coconut oil can substitute for the olive oil.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder instead of the minced garlic if fresh is unavailable.
Kosher salt can be replaced by sea salt.
1/2 teaspoon of white pepper, which is a milder alternative to black pepper.
One tablespoon of lime juice can be used in place of lemon juice when you want a somewhat different citrus taste.
Parmesan cheese can be replaced with nutritional yeast, a non-dairy food that is high in protein and vitamins.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh, Firm Spinach: Choose fresh spinach with firm leaves for the best grilling results. Avoid using old or wilted spinach, as it won’t hold up well on the grill.

2. Preheat the Grill Basket: Make sure to preheat your grill basket or grilling mat before adding the spinach. This helps achieve that nice char without overcooking the leaves.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Spread the spinach evenly in a single layer on the grill basket or mat. Overcrowding can prevent even cooking and limit the charring effect.

4. Add a Splash of Balsamic Vinegar: Just before serving, try drizzling a small amount of balsamic vinegar over the finished dish for an extra layer of flavor that complements the lemon and Parmesan.

5. Experiment with Additional Toppings: Consider adding toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds along with the Parmesan cheese for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the spinach.

Please enter your email to print the recipe:

Submit

Grilled Spinach Recipe

My favorite Grilled Spinach Recipe

Print Recipe

Equipment Needed:

1. Grill
2. Grill basket or grilling mat
3. Salad spinner or clean towel
4. Big mixing bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Garlic mincer
7. Tongs
8. Serving dish
9. Lemon squeezer (optional)
10. Cheese grater (optional)

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh spinach leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat your grill to medium-high.

2. Rinse the spinach leaves very well and dry them using a clean towel or salad spinner.

3. In a big mixing bowl, blend together the olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

4. Put the spinach leaves in the bowl. Gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning mixture.

5. Put the grill basket on the grill that has been preheated, or use a grilling mat. Then distribute the spinach across the surface evenly.

6. Cook the spinach on the grill for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, turning it occasionally, until the leaves become wilted and develop a slight char.

7. When grilling spinach, pay close attention to it. You can easily burn it if you’re not careful, and that would not make a great side dish. I keep the heat somewhere between medium and medium-low when grilling spinach.

8. When it is finished cooking, move the spinach to a serving dish.

9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled spinach for added flavor.

10. Consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese to your dish before you serve it to your guests. Doing so will greatly improve the taste of the dish. Serve it immediately after you sprinkle the cheese on top.