Around the Campfire
Garlic spinach is a fast camp side for nights when dinner needs something green. It works with steak, chicken, pork, bowls, or eggs.
Why This Recipe Works
Spinach cooks very quickly, so gentle heat keeps it from going too far. Garlic butter goes in late for clean flavor.
Quick Facts
- Serves: 4
- Heat zone: Low to medium-low
- Best for: Quick sides, steak plates, rice bowls
- Teaches: Gentle greens cooking
Shopping List
- Spinach
- Garlic
- Butter
- Salt and pepper
Home Prep
Wash and dry spinach if using early. Portion garlic and butter before the trip.
Cooler Packing
Keep spinach dry and protected near the top of the cooler.
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle
- Spatula
- Tongs
Heat Zones
Use low to medium-low heat and give the vegetables room to caramelize rather than steam.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces (about 10 cups) fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the griddle on low to medium-low.
- Add 10 ounces of fresh spinach in a loose pile.
- Turn with tongs until it begins to wilt, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter and 3 minced garlic cloves near the end. Toss to melt and coat.
- Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Serve immediately.
Doneness
Spinach should be wilted and hot but not watery.
Common Mistakes
- Cooking too hot.
- Adding garlic too early.
- Cooking too long.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steak, chicken, pork chops, rice bowls, or eggs. Top with fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan if you like.
Variations
- Add lemon.
- Add Parmesan.
- Add mushrooms.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: As written.
- Dairy-free: Use oil or plant-based butter.
- Vegan: Use oil or plant-based butter.
Scaling
Cook in batches because spinach starts bulky and shrinks quickly.
Weather Notes
Spinach cooks fast, making it useful in wind.
Leftovers
Use leftovers in eggs, wraps, bowls, or quesadillas.
Kid Helper Tasks
Kids can sprinkle Parmesan or squeeze lemon after cooking.
Dragonfly Tip
Spinach is fast. Make it after the main dish is almost ready.
Dragonfly Challenge
Try one batch with lemon and one with Parmesan. Pick the better camp side.