Flat leaf spinach is one of the most popular variety of spinach found in United states. These spade-shaped leaves are smooth, soft and tender in texture. They are crisp and mildly sweet in flavor and are usually eaten raw in smoothies and salads. Flat leaf spinach is also cooked in many ways like soups, stir-fries, quiches. They are also good as baby food.
Select and Store
Flat leaf spinach is sold loose in bunches or packaged. The packaged ones are pre-washed and are usually seen in the salad bar section of supermarkets. Although the package says ready to serve, it is better to wash the spinach before using to make sure they are free from sand grits.
Fresh spinach is available all year-round. When you buy fresh spinach, select those with dark green color, crispy texture and avoid those with yellow and wilted leaves. When buying packaged spinach, make sure they don’t have excessive moisture and are stored in a cool place. Look for the ‘best if used by’ date. If you can get locally grown spinach, that is the best option.
Eat the spinach within 3-5 days of purchase. They will lose the nutrition within a few days of harvest. They are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, iron and manganese.I mainly use them to make green smoothies, stir-fry and curry.
Flat leaf Spinach Recipes
When my recipe calls for spinach, chances are high that it will be flat leaf spinach. Try our flat leaf spinach recipes;
