This Garlicky Spinach with Sesame Oil is one of my top three favorite effortless appetizers for any occasion. It’s light, healthy, and packed with umami flavor—perfect as a side dish, part of a bento box, or a quick snack. The combination of tender spinach, aromatic garlic, and rich toasted sesame oil makes this dish both simple and satisfying.
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Ingredients for Spinach with Sesame Oil
10 oz (300 g) baby spinach
1 clove of garlic
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame seeds
1/2 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
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Sauté the Spinach
Heat a dry pan over medium heat. Add the baby spinach and sauté for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If the spinach starts to stick or dry out, add a splash of water to help it wilt evenly. -
Drain and Squeeze
Once wilted, remove the spinach from the pan and drain thoroughly. Let it cool slightly, then gently squeeze out excess water. Be careful not to over-squeeze, as you still want the spinach to retain some moisture. -
Season the Spinach
Place the squeezed spinach in a bowl. Add garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. -
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Serve warm or chilled—this dish tastes great either way!
Useful Tips
Use Baby Spinach for Best Results
I usually use baby spinach for this recipe because it cooks quickly and has a tender texture.
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To cook the spinach, sauté it in a dry pan until wilted.
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Alternatively, blanch the spinach in boiling water for a few seconds until just wilted.
After cooking, drain and gently squeeze out the excess water. Be careful not to over-squeeze, or the spinach can become too dry. For easier serving, you can cut the cooked spinach with kitchen scissors.
Adjust the Garlic to Your Taste
Garlic adds a wonderful flavor to spinach dishes. If you’re a fan of bold, garlicky flavors, feel free to use more.
Personally, I only use one clove of garlic because my husband prefers a milder taste. Customize it to suit your household!
Make It Gluten-Free
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply swap regular soy sauce with Tamari. It’s a great alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Don’t Skip the Toasted Sesame Oil
Toasted sesame oil gives this dish a rich, nutty aroma that really elevates the flavor. Be sure to use toasted sesame oil, not the plain one, for that authentic touch.
💡 Need tips on how to choose fresh spinach at the store?
Check out the detailed guide here: How to Choose and Buy Spinach.
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Garlicky Spinach with Sesame Oil
Equipment
- 1 salad bowl
Ingredients
- 10 oz baby spinach 300 g
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1/2 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté spinach on a dry pan for 3-5 minutes. Add a little water as needed.
- Drain and squeeze the cooked spinach. Mix with soy sauce, pressed garlic, and sesame oil. Add salt if needed and a pinch of black pepper.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve.