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Keto Salads

Wilted Spinach

This wilted spinach salad has been a staple in my kitchen for years—it’s incredibly simple yet feels a bit elegant. The warm, tender spinach soaks up a tangy balsamic dressing, finished with crunchy pine nuts for texture. It’s the perfect low-carb side to round out any meal, and it comes together in just minutes.

10 min Prep time 3 min Cook time 13 min Total time 2 Servings 300 Calories
Wilted Spinach

Ingredients

  • /4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • teaspoon lemon juice
  • tablespoon bottled minced garlic
  • pinch sea salt
  • pinch ground black pepper
  • ounces baby spinach
  • /2 tablespoons pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    First, I whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until the dressing comes together smoothly. Set it aside to let the flavors mingle. Meanwhile, get a pot with a steamer basket ready and bring a couple inches of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Place the baby spinach in the basket, cover, and steam for just 2 to 3 minutes—keep an eye on it so it wilts without becoming soggy. Immediately transfer the spinach to a serving bowl. Give the dressing another quick stir, then drizzle it over the warm spinach while gently tossing with tongs until every leaf is coated. The residual heat helps the spinach absorb all that tangy goodness. Sprinkle the pine nuts on top right before serving for a delightful crunch. If I’m feeling fancy, I toast the pine nuts in a dry pan for a minute until golden—it really elevates the dish. Enjoy it while it’s warm, though it’s equally good at room temperature.

Chef's Tip

I always toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and lightly golden—it brings out their buttery flavor and adds a lovely smoky note that plain raw nuts just can’t match.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The spinach will release moisture, so it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature—no need to reheat.

Variation Tips

Try swapping pine nuts for toasted walnuts or slivered almonds. For a heartier dish, add crumbled feta or diced avocado right before serving, or pair it with grilled chicken for a complete keto meal.

Frequently Asked Questions