This spinach and tomatoes recipe is absolutely delicious and the perfect side dish for so many different meals. Not only is it sautéed in olive oil, it’s gluten free and low calorie.

Plus it’s one of those healthy recipes that also delivers wonderful results. In other words, it tastes great! Don’t be surprised if your kids ask for seconds.

Easy and Delicious Side Dish

I love a wide variety of vegetables because so many of them are versatile. And I put tomatoes at the very top of the list. Think about it. They’re a staple in many American and ethnic dishes. And they’re delicious with spinach! I also love the color contrast because that makes them more appetizing … at least in my world. Serve it with a side of southern style cornbread for an even tastier meal!

Ingredients

Although spinach and tomatoes are the stars of this dish, the supporting ingredients help make the flavor so wonderful and rich.

Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

• 2/3 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
• 8-10 ounces fresh spinach (regular or fresh baby spinach)
• 1/2 cup diced onions (yellow or white onion)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (fresh garlic or jarred)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt to taste (Himalayan pink salt, sea salt, or regular table salt)
• Dash of black pepper

If you want to print this recipe, go to the recipe card at the bottom of this page where I put a printable recipe card for your convenience.

Of course, you can add other ingredients you like. I started to sprinkle in some garlic powder. But after tasting it, I felt that it was perfect as-is for my husband and me. I used the Roma tomatoes that were on sale in the grocery store. However, you can use whatever tomatoes you have, including fresh cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes.

It really doesn’t matter. If you don’t have fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes are good too. Just be sure to drain them before putting them in the skillet. I’ve also used tomato sauce, but the sauce overpowers the spinach. So I prefer to leave it out.

Other Ingredients you might like:

• Red pepper flakes
• Heavy cream
• Cream cheese
• Lemon juice
• Bell pepper (any color)
• Fresh basil or Italian seasoning

How to Make Sauteed Spinach and Tomatoes

This easy recipe goes pretty quickly. In fact, once you get started adding ingredients, the total cook time is only about 10 minutes That’s why I like to have all of the ingredients ready to go before I begin cooking. Heat oil in a medium or large skillet over medium-high heat. Next, sauté the onions and garlic until the onions become translucent. Turn the stove burner down to medium-low heat.

Add the diced tomatoes and cook them until they soften. This should only take a minute or two.

Now sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and onion powder over the tomatoes. Stir to make sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Add the spinach. It will appear to be a lot until it cooks down. As the water from the spinach evaporates, it will shrink quite a bit. Now gently toss it with the tomatoes and other seasonings. I use tongs to basically turn the spinach over until it shrinks a bit.

I used a single bag of fresh spinach. If you’re cooking a greater amount, you’ll definitely need a large skillet. If you’ve ever cooked fresh spinach, you know that when it wilts with the heat the volume decreases dramatically.

Next, cover the pan and simmer for about 5 minutes on low heat. Remove the lid and taste a small bite. If it needs more seasoning, add it now. Turn off the heat and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Since this is such an easy food to prepare, you may discover that it becomes a regular side dish in your dinner rotation.

More Ways to Serve Sautéed Spinach and Tomatoes

You can also serve it over either rice or pasta if you need something more filling. I’ve tried it over gluten-free elbow pasta, and it’s really good—especially if you sprinkle a little parmesan cheese over the top. Feel free to use regular or whole wheat pasta. In fact, any kind of pasta is good with this dish. I think it would be good over some delicious grits too. I’ve never tried it this way, but I’m sure it would be absolutely yummy!

More Delicious Side Dish Recipes

Loaded Baked Potato – This loaded baked potato is a family favorite around here. It’s easy to make and offers everything you want to add to a side dish.

Sweet Potato Fries – Add sweet potato fries to any spinach dip, and you’ll have an extra colorful meal.

Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Chips – This is a great recipe, even for people who don’t typically like veggies. Get them to try one, and they’ll be hooked.

Cheesy Garlic Bread – This cheesy garlic bread from Julia’s Simply Southern goes with a wide variety of dishes. It’s one of the simple ways to top off a meal to make it even more special.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese – Here is a case of simple ingredients all coming together to provide great flavors that are so comforting.

Mama’s Potato Salad – This is one of those delicious recipes that you can serve to your family or bring to a potluck. When you bring this, it’s a great idea to bring copies of the recipe to share.

Zesty Rotini Pasta Salad – This is a healthy pasta recipe with a lot of flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach and Tomatoes

I’ve always seen spinach and tomatoes as nutritious ingredients to add to my menu as often as possible. Here are some questions you may have about the dish and the ingredients.

Can You Use Canned Spinach in This Recipe?

Yes, you can use canned spinach, but keep in mind that it is probably already seasoned. Read the ingredient list on the label to make sure you don’t over-salt it. You’ll also skip the step of sautéing the spinach. Drain the liquid before adding the spinach to the tomatoes.

Can You Store Leftover Spinach and Tomatoes?

Yes. All you need to do is place it in an airtight container and put it in the refrigerator. It should be good for at least a couple of days. If you want to freeze it, make sure you label the airtight container with the date and what is in it. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Eating Spinach?

Spinach is packed with nutrients that help keep your body functioning at the highest level possible. It has vitamins A, C, K, folic acid, iron, calcium, and more.

Are Tomatoes Good for You?

Yes, tomatoes are very good for you according to Healthline. They contain lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and other nutrients. Lycopene offers a variety of benefits, including eye health, heart support, and antioxidants that help fight cancer.

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