Spinach Day

Today (March 26) is Spinach Day. Popeye loved his spinach for a reason. This versatile green can be eaten raw or cooked and used in many different recipes. Here is more about this powerhouse vegetable.

Spinach is much more than just the boring side dish that some of us may think of when we hear this vegetable. Spinach tastes different depending on if it is raw or cooked and how it is seasoned.

Spinach is in season in the spring and fall, from March to June and September to December.

Spinach is packed full of nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fiber, and folate. Vitamin K helps with blood clotting. Vitamin A and C are antioxidants, which reduce risk for certain diseases and cancer. Vitamin A also helps with healthy vision and vitamin C helps protect skin from bruises, helps heal cuts, and helps with healthy gums. Calcium and magnesium are needed for healthy bones. Potassium helps lower blood pressure and fiber controls cholesterol and keeps you regular. Folate reduces risk for heart disease and helps prevent birth defects during pregnancy.

Try using raw spinach instead of lettuce in salads or on sandwiches, or add spinach to pasta sauces, soups, stews, or casserole. You can also add spinach to quiche, omelets, or frittatas. If raw spinach is too bitter for your salad, try mixing it with romaine lettuce or iceberg lettuce.

Instead of your normal lasagna recipe, try spinach lasagna for dinner. Add spinach to your homemade pizzas. Try sautéing spinach in a skillet with some olive oil and garlic for a side dish.

March Cook It Quick newsletter

The March issue of the Cook It Quick newsletter from the University of Nebraska Lincoln Extension is now available!

In this month's issue, you will find:

• Ideas to go for the green for St. Patrick's Day
• Roasted sweet potatoes with onions
• Chocolate chip yogurt cookies
• Salmon with mustard sauce
• Making a meal with what's on hand
• Selecting and serving seafood safely
• Old fashion bread pudding
• Prolonging the life of bananas
• Sweet potato casserole
• And other helpful tips!

You don't want to miss this month's issue of the Cook It Quick newsletter from the University of Nebraska Lincoln Extension!