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Garlic Spinach Stir-Fry

This quick stir-fry highlights the fleeting moment when garlic sizzles in hot oil, releasing its pungent aroma, as fresh spinach rapidly wilts into a bright, tender green. The dish comes together in seconds, resulting in a fragrant, slightly smoky side with vibrant color and a tender bite. It’s a simple, flavorful way to elevate everyday greens with minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups fresh spinach washed and dried
  • 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil such as grapeseed or canola
  • pinch salt to taste
  • 1 squeeze lemon or vinegar for brightness, optional
  • pinch red pepper flakes optional for heat

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spatula
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in your large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot, with a slight wisp of smoke.
  2. Add the sliced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant and just starting to turn golden around the edges.
  3. Immediately add the fresh spinach all at once, tossing quickly with your spatula to coat the leaves in the garlic-infused oil.
  4. Keep tossing and stirring for about 1-2 minutes, until the spinach wilts rapidly, turns bright green, and is tender but still with a slight bite.
  5. Season with a pinch of salt and add a squeeze of lemon or vinegar for a bright, tangy finish, then toss again to combine.
  6. Remove from heat immediately once the greens are tender and fragrant, then transfer to a serving dish.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or drizzle soy sauce before serving. Use fresh garlic slices for the best aroma and quick cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning the garlic; remove from heat as soon as fragrant.