Whether you eat it raw or cooked, spinach is a versatile and delicious vegetable. Regarded as a powerhouse food by the American Heart Association (AHA), this leafy green is nutrient-dense and low in calories. We rounded up some delicious, easy, and healthy recipes from Island Scene magazine and islandscene.com.
egg drop soup with spinach and tofu
This popular starter at Chinese restaurants is comforting and surprisingly easy to make. And adding spinach and tofu elevates it from an appetizer to a main course. Enjoy!
english muffin pizzas
Pizza may have a bad reputation as junk food, but we have a healthier version that’s so easy that even kids can make it. Be sure to pile on veggies like spinach and peppers and use a whole-wheat English muffin to increase the fiber and decrease the sugar content. Also, try to use a marinara sauce that’s low in sugar and with as few ingredients as possible (to avoid additives).
lemon bowtie pasta salad
This light and tangy salad packed with spinach and tomatoes is a great way to get the keiki involved. Studies show that helping out in kitchen builds their confidence, communication skills, and fine motor skills.
luncheon meat and spinach egg muffins
This local spin on a popular breakfast is easy to make ahead and freeze. Grab a couple in the morning and zap in the microwave for an easy and nutritious (thanks to the spinach) meal on the go!
picnic-friendly jar salads and pressed sandwiches
Spinach at a picnic? Don’t worry, we’re not trying to ruin the good vibes with healthy food! These jar salads and pressed sandwiches are actually the perfect way to fuel up for a fun day at the beach, park, or even your own backyard.
potato spinach frittata
A frittata is like a quiche without a crust. While this recipe calls for potatoes, spinach, and cheese, you can use whatever you have in your refrigerator, such as bacon, asparagus, or kale!
simple spinach dip
Whether you eat chips, vegetables, or both, you won’t be disappointed with this delicious dip. You can also use it as a spread for sandwiches. Even with reduced-fat cream cheese cream and mayo, this healthier version is just as good as any dip you’d find at a restaurant.
veggie train
If you make the spinach dip, you can build an adorable veggie train! Fill up colorful peppers with other dips and spreads and your favorite vegetables. Who can blame you for playing with your food?
soba tofu spinach salad
Besides boiling the soba noodles and cooking the edamame, you only need to chop and assemble a few ingredients for this refreshing and hearty meal. The recipe calls for baby spinach, which has a mild, sweet taste, since it’s harvested when the leaves are small and tender.
turkey gnocchi soup
If you love the chicken gnocchi soup at a popular Italian restaurant chain, this recipe is for you! Made with similar ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this soup throughout the year, not just when you have leftover turkey. Or you can use rotisserie chicken instead!
vegan kabocha and red lentil stew
While we all know that a vegan diet can be good for our health and the environment, we also know that a major dietary change can be difficult to sustain. However, even doing Meatless Mondays or having a vegan-inspired meal here or there can be beneficial. This tasty and filling vegan stew includes kabocha, red lentils, carrots, and spinach; it’s so good that you may not even miss the meat or animal by-products.
In a pickle?
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be a bore or a chore! Here are some simple and nutritious recipes that you’ll want to add to your lunch or dinner rotation.
