Spinach with tomato sauce

Spinach with Tomato Sauce and Chicken Thighs
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction
Spinach with tomato sauce and chicken thighs is a comforting recipe, full of flavor and nutrients, that will bring a splash of color and health to your plate. This delicious combination is perfect for a quick dinner but also for festive meals. Spinach, rich in iron and vitamins, harmoniously blends with the juicy meat, while the tomato sauce adds a note of freshness and acidity. Let’s discover each step of this recipe together!

Ingredients
- 400 g frozen spinach
- 2 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 red onion
- 3 green garlic stalks
- 1 can of tomatoes in juice (400 g)
- 1 tablespoon sweet pepper paste
- A pinch of chopped hot pepper (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil (or any preferred oil)
- Optional: grated cow cheese for serving

Preparation

1. Preparing the chicken thighs
Start by washing the chicken thighs well. Remove the skin if you prefer a healthier option. Place the thighs in a pot and add enough water to cover them. Boil over medium heat for about 15 minutes, or until the meat becomes tender. Once boiled, remove the thighs from the water and let them cool slightly, then cut them into smaller pieces. This technique will ensure that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

2. Preparing the vegetables
Peel the red onion and green garlic. Dice the onion into small cubes and finely chop the garlic. These ingredients will add a delicious aroma and a boost of nutrients to your recipe.

3. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and chopped garlic and sauté for 3 minutes, until they become translucent. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the sauce.

4. Adding the meat
After the onion and garlic have sautéed, add the boiled chicken pieces and mix well. Let them cook together for 5 minutes, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

5. The tomato sauce
Now it’s time to add the canned tomatoes, juice, and sweet pepper paste. You can use peeled or chopped tomatoes, depending on your preference. Mix well and add a pinch of hot pepper if you want a spicier sauce. Season with salt to taste. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 10 minutes to combine the flavors.

6. Adding the spinach
Once the sauce has started to simmer, add the frozen spinach. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot at first; it will wilt quickly. Add a little broth from the water in which the thighs were boiled to help the spinach break down. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The spinach will become tender, and the sauce will reduce, becoming more concentrated.

7. Finishing and serving
When the sauce has thickened and the spinach is well cooked, you can turn off the heat. Serve the dish hot, sprinkling grated cow cheese on top for an extra creaminess and flavor. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or mashed potatoes, but you can also experiment with pasta or polenta.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. Chicken thighs provide important protein, and tomatoes contain lycopene, a natural antioxidant. A serving of this dish can provide about 350 calories, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal.

Possible Variations
If you want to bring a new twist to your recipe, you can add mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for extra texture. You can also replace the chicken thighs with turkey meat or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Instead of canned tomatoes, you can use fresh crushed tomatoes, and for an even more intense flavor, add a bay leaf during cooking.

Practical Tips
- Make sure to use quality spinach, either fresh or frozen, for the best results.
- You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and keep it in the fridge, which will enhance the flavors.
- If you don’t have green garlic, you can use dried garlic, but the amount will be smaller - about 1-2 cloves.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or parmesan, to give the dish a unique touch.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach, but you will need to wash and sauté it a bit before adding it to the sauce.
2. What can I do with leftovers?
The dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or freshly made lemonade are excellent choices that will complement your meals.

I hope this recipe for spinach with tomato sauce and chicken thighs inspires you to cook and experiment! Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create something special. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 400g frozen spinach, 2 boneless chicken thighs, 1 red onion, 3 green garlic shoots, 1 can of tomatoes in juice, 1 tablespoon of sweet pepper paste, a pinch of chopped hot pepper, salt, oil, optional cow's telemea cheese