Things you might not know about this wonderfully, nutritious, versatile leaf…
Nutrient-rich
This green vegetable is well known for being rich in iron, but is also a good source of magnesium and fibre. Spinach contains high levels of vitamin K; vital for good bone health. It’s also a great source of beta carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A for healthy skin, hair and eye health.
One of the most protein-rich vegetables available
One handful of raw spinach, about 30g, contains approximately 1g of protein. Since heat significantly reduces the portion size of raw spinach, a cup-sized portion of cooked spinach contains approximately 5g of protein.
Identifiable on a menu
‘Florentine’ is often used to describe dishes featuring spinach.
Consider organic
According to the Environmental Working Group, spinach is one of the most contaminated vegetables. Whenever possible, purchase organic spinach to obtain the full health benefits this green vegetable offers, without also consuming harmful pesticide residues.
Unusual texture
The high quantity of oxalic acid contained in spinach is responsible for that ‘chalky’ feeling left on your teeth during or after eating. If you suffer from this strange side effect a squeeze of lemon juice will help reduce the unusual texture left in your mouth.
Family member
Along with beetroot, chard and quinoa, spinach belongs to the Amaranthaceae family of vegetables.
Highly versatile
The raw leaves may be eaten in a healthy salad or sandwich, but its inoffensive taste also makes spinach a great vegetable to whizz into smoothies and juices. Since the fibre is broken down when blending or juicing, drinking it provides an easy option to consume a greater quantity of spinach without the need to chew! Spinach can also be steamed or stir-fried, although the cooking time should be kept to a minimum to preserve nutrients. It only takes a few minutes to stir-fry or braise as a side dish, or wilt down into a sauce or curry.
Widely in season…
This leafy green thrives in cooler, wetter climates. Fortunately, spinach is available all year round in the UK, but is ideally picked in early Spring time for the freshest and most tender leaves. So now that we are approaching optimum spinach season – take a green leaf from Popeye’s book, and eat some spinach today.