Creamed Spinach for Two

We are closely approaching Valentines Day.  With the state of the economy this year seems like a year for staying in and cooking.  So I have come up with a few recipes for two that will work perfect on your special night.  I am starting with the sides as they are my favorite part of the dinner.  Recently Dana and I went out to a nice steakhouse and had some less than spectacular creamed spinach.  So I decided this would be the first recipe I tackle.

Creamed Spinach for Two – (Adapted from Emeril)

• 12 ounces fresh spinach, washed
• 1 tb unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots, one large shallot chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg, freshly grated if possible
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Wash the spinach and then remove any large stems.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.  Add the spinach and cook for 2 minutes.  Remember you will need a large pot as uncooked spinach takes up a lot of room.

Here is an after picture.  You want to blanch the spinach.

Empty the spinach into a fine strainer and squeeze out as much water as you can.  I find that a back of a wooden spoon can do wonders in this step.  Then chop the spinach into smaller pieces.

Melt the butter in medium saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the shallots and garlic and cook, stirring, until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Then add the spinach.  Cook until you see some liquid starting to be released from the spinach.  You will notice that the mixture will become a little easier to stir.  Then add the cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and cook until the cream is reduced by half, about 4 minutes.

Remove and serve with your main dish.

This creamed spinach was awesome.  As good or better than any I have ever eaten.  Cook this for your special someone and it will be a good night.