10 Fresh Spinach Recipes That Go Beyond Sautéed Spinach

Spinach is like the little black dress of vegetables: It works with just about any dish, on any occasion. And though sautéed or creamed spinach are great classic sides, this healthy green can do so much more. 

Grab that bag of fresh spinach in the produce aisle, and get ready to enjoy a range of dishes. Our 10 favorite fresh spinach recipes transform this fiber-rich vegetable into everything from smoothies to wraps, and more.

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1. Bowtie Spinach Pasta 

Courtesy of Baking with Mom

This spinach pasta is bright and filling — perfect for a light lunch. Sauté the tomatoes and mushrooms together until soft, then cook the spinach until it’s just wilted. Add in cooked pasta and a splash of vegetable broth before serving. Optional: Add grilled chicken for protein. 

Try this recipe from Baking with Mom.

2. Spinach Wraps with Hummus

Courtesy of Healthy Seasonal Recipes

Double your fiber intake with these spinach wraps — not only is there fresh spinach inside, but using spinach tortillas adds even more nutrients to your meal. Start by spreading hummus on the base of the tortilla. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning for a blend of toasty, salty, and savory flavors. Finish with fresh spinach and any other veggies you have on hand, like avocado, onion, and carrots. 

Try this recipe from Healthy Seasonal Recipes.

3. Spinach Rice with Feta

Courtesy of A Couple Cooks

Spinach rice is a Mediterranean fave with lots of dill and tangy feta. All you need is 10 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep to make this fresh spinach recipe. First, cook the rice with spinach and garlic. Mix in seasonings and lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Pair with any kind of seafood or grilled chicken. 

Try this recipe from A Couple Cooks.

4. Green Smoothie

Courtesy of Downshiftology

Smoothies are the easiest way to enjoy your greens. Blend spinach with banana, apple, avocado, and your preferred milk for a vitamin-packed breakfast. For more protein and a thicker consistency, add Greek yogurt. 

Try this recipe from Downshiftology.

Related: 8 Healthy Spinach Recipes That Use Up the Whole Bag

5. Spinach Oatmeal

Courtesy of Veggies Don’t Bite

Swap from sweet oatmeal to savory with this unique fresh spinach recipe. Simply sauté fresh spinach with garlic and salt, then add oats and cashew milk. It’s ready in less than 5 minutes. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of parmesan on top. 

Try this recipe from Veggies Don’t Bite.

6. Spinach Pizza 

Courtesy of Kim’s Cravings

This crisp spinach pizza is gluten free thanks to the cauliflower crust. The cottage cheese-based white sauce is rich in protein and also features spinach, garlic, and parmesan. Spread the sauce evenly over the crust, top with sliced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, and bake. 

Try this recipe from Kim’s Cravings.

7. Spinach and Shrimp Spring Rolls 

Courtesy of The Mindful Hapa

Here’s a gluten- and dairy-free meal packed with fiber and protein. These spring rolls make for an exciting lunch you can whip up in 15 minutes. Fill rice paper with spinach, bell peppers, cucumbers, shrimp, cilantro, basil, and mint. Sear lightly for four minutes on each side to crisp them up. For a hearty dipping sauce, combine coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and garlic. 

Try this recipe from The Mindful Hapa.

8. Spinach Pesto

Courtesy of Nora Cooks

Enhance your next pasta night with this herby spinach pesto. Blend spinach, basil, garlic, walnuts, lemon juice, and parmesan until smooth. Dairy-free? Cheese is optional in this recipe; you can replace it with nutritional yeast instead, if you prefer. Serve with pasta, pizza, or as a dip. 

Try this recipe from Nore Cooks.

9. Smoothie Bowl

Courtesy of Minimalist Baker

Smoothie bowls are rich in nutrients and the perfect base for a light breakfast. Blend avocado, bananas, berries, spinach, non-dairy milk, and your favorite nut butter until thick. Bonus: Add flax or chia seeds for additional fiber. Then spoon into a bowl with your favorite toppings like granola, fresh berries, and shredded coconut. 

Try this recipe from Minimalist Baker.

10. Spinach Salad with Strawberries

Courtesy of Two Peas and Their Pod

Salads are a no-brainer when it comes to fresh spinach recipes because they show off the crunch of this leafy vegetable. This strawberry spinach salad offers a varied mix of sweet and savory flavors, thanks to chopped strawberries, tangy feta, and spicy red onions. Toss with a strawberry balsamic dressing that brings everything together. 

Try this recipe from Two Peas and Their Pod.

Read next: 14 Seriously Flavorful Recipes Starring Chicken and Spinach