Chopped Frozen Spinach Recipes Vegan for Easy Meals

Chopped frozen spinach is a versatile and convenient ingredient that every vegan kitchen should have on hand. Unlike fresh spinach, which can wilt quickly and requires immediate use, frozen spinach is pre-washed, chopped, and ready to add to your favorite recipes anytime.

It’s a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it perfect for boosting the health quotient of your meals without sacrificing flavor or texture.

In this post, we’ll explore several delicious and creative vegan recipes featuring chopped frozen spinach. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick snack, a hearty main dish, or a nutritious side, these recipes are simple, flavorful, and perfect for all skill levels.

Plus, they highlight how easy it is to incorporate greens into your diet without the fuss of fresh produce. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of chopped frozen spinach recipes that are sure to become staples in your vegan cooking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Using chopped frozen spinach offers numerous benefits that make these vegan recipes not only tasty but also practical. First, the convenience factor is unbeatable—no chopping, washing, or worrying about spoilage.

Frozen spinach retains much of its nutritional value, so you’re still getting a healthy dose of iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C.

Moreover, frozen spinach blends beautifully into dishes, providing a rich, vibrant color and a mild, slightly earthy flavor that complements a variety of ingredients. These recipes are budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and adaptable, allowing you to customize spices and add-ins according to your taste.

Whether you’re making creamy dips, savory casseroles, or filling stews, chopped frozen spinach is a fantastic vegan ingredient that elevates every meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped frozen spinach (thawed and excess water squeezed out)
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice (optional for added texture)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup walnuts or pine nuts (optional, toasted)
• Fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or basil (optional)

Equipment

• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Colander or fine mesh strainer
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Grater (optional, if grating fresh garlic or lemon zest)

Instructions

1. Thaw the frozen spinach by placing it in a colander and running under warm water, or letting it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Introduce the thawed spinach to the pan and stir to combine with the onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through and any remaining moisture evaporates.
5. Stir in the nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
6. Add the plant-based milk to the skillet and stir until the spinach mixture becomes creamy and well combined. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. If using herbs, chop and fold them into the mixture at this stage.
8. If desired, stir in the cooked quinoa or rice to provide some bite and make the dish more filling.
9. Toast the walnuts or pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Sprinkle over the finished dish for added crunch.
10. Serve warm as a side dish, spread, or base for other recipes.

Tips & Variations

“For a faster prep, use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder, and swap out quinoa for couscous or bulgur to mix up the grains.”

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the onions.
• Cheesy vegan dip: Blend the cooked spinach mixture with silken tofu or soaked cashews for a creamy dip perfect with crackers or veggie sticks.
• Stuffed vegetables: Use this spinach mixture to stuff bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini boats before baking.
• Spinach pasta sauce: Thin out the mixture with vegetable broth and toss with your favorite pasta for a quick meal.
• Boost the protein: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas to the spinach base for a more substantial dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chopped frozen spinach preparation is wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a warm side alongside roasted root vegetables or vegan protein options like baked tofu or tempeh.

It also pairs brilliantly with grains such as couscous, rice, or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

For a light lunch, spread it on toasted whole grain bread and top with sliced avocado and cherry tomatoes. It’s also excellent as a filling for wraps or vegan pita sandwiches.

Don’t forget to check out other creative vegetable recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or add punchy flavor with a side of Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Delicious Chopped Frozen Spinach Vegan Recipes

Creamy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

This is a classic party favorite made healthier and vegan-friendly with frozen spinach. It’s perfect for dipping crackers, bread, or veggies.

• Ingredients: 1 cup chopped frozen spinach, 1 cup canned artichoke hearts (drained and chopped), 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese, 1/4 cup nutritional yeast, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/4 cup unsweetened plant milk, salt and pepper to taste.
• Instructions: Thaw spinach and squeeze dry. Sauté garlic, add spinach and artichokes, then stir in cream cheese, yeast, and milk. Heat until creamy and warm. Season to taste.

Spinach and Chickpea Curry

A hearty, flavorful curry that’s perfect for meal prep and packed with protein and nutrients.

• Ingredients: 1 cup chopped frozen spinach, 1 can chickpeas (drained), 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp curry powder, 1 can coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
• Instructions: Sauté onion and garlic, add curry powder and cook briefly. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, and spinach. Simmer 15 minutes. Season and serve with rice.

Vegan Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna

A comforting, layered casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

• Ingredients: 2 cups chopped frozen spinach, 2 cups sliced mushrooms, lasagna noodles (gluten-free if desired), 2 cups marinara sauce, 1 cup vegan ricotta, 1 tbsp olive oil.
• Instructions: Sauté mushrooms and spinach. Layer noodles, spinach mixture, marinara, and vegan ricotta. Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes until bubbly.

Conclusion

Chopped frozen spinach is an incredibly versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient that makes vegan cooking easier and more enjoyable. Its convenience and long shelf life mean you can add a healthy boost to your meals anytime without the hassle of prepping fresh greens.

The recipes shared here—from creamy dips to hearty curries and comforting casseroles—demonstrate just how adaptable spinach can be in vegan cuisine.

By incorporating chopped frozen spinach into your cooking, you’re not only enhancing flavor and texture but also supporting your wellness with a boost of vital nutrients. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices, grains, and nuts to make these recipes your own.

For more inspiring vegan and vegetable-focused recipes, explore options like Pesto Recipe Marcella Hazan or enjoy a sweet treat with the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe. Happy cooking!

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