Name: Dairy Free Creamed Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups (120g) fresh spinach, washed and dried; 1 cup (240ml) full-fat coconut milk, canned preferred; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic; 1 small yellow onion; 2 tbsp nutritional yeast; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; Pinch red pepper flakes or nutmeg (optional)

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Recipe Overview

Total Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Method: Stovetop
Prep: Quick & Easy

This dairy free creamed spinach transforms a classic side dish into a plant-based delight. Rich coconut milk creates the perfect creamy texture without dairy. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or weeknight meals.

This recipe costs approximately $8-12 total, serving four people generously. The health benefits include iron from spinach, healthy fats from coconut milk, and fiber for digestive health.

◆✨ What Makes This Special

Ready in just 25 minutes with simple ingredients you likely have on hand
Creamy, rich texture that rivals traditional dairy versions without compromise
Packed with nutrients including iron, vitamins A and K, plus healthy plantbased fats

Why This Dairy Free Creamed Spinach Recipe Works

Full-fat coconut milk provides natural creaminess without artificial thickeners. The nutritional yeast adds a subtle nutty flavor that mimics cheese perfectly.

Fresh spinach wilts quickly, maintaining vibrant color and nutrients. The garlic and onion base creates depth of flavor that complements any main dish.

This recipe works beautifully alongside Ultimate Chicken Casserole or holiday roasts. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins too.

What You’ll Need for Perfect Dairy Free Creamed Spinach

Ingredients

Category	Ingredients	Quantity & Notes
Base	Fresh spinach	4 cups (120g), washed and dried
Cream	Full-fat coconut milk	1 cup (240ml), canned preferred
Aromatics	Olive oil, garlic, yellow onion	2 tbsp oil, 3 cloves garlic, 1 small onion
Flavor	Nutritional yeast, salt, pepper	2 tbsp yeast, season to taste
Optional	Red pepper flakes or nutmeg	Pinch for extra warmth

Tools

Category	Tools	Purpose
Cooking	Large skillet, wooden spoon	Sautéing and stirring
Prep	Cutting board, sharp knife	Chopping vegetables
Measuring	Measuring cups, spoons	Accurate portions

How to Make Dairy Free Creamed Spinach

Phase	Steps	Time & Key Points
Prep	Heat olive oil, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant	3-5 minutes, medium heat
Wilt	Add spinach, stir frequently until completely wilted	3-4 minutes, don’t overcook
Cream	Pour coconut milk, add nutritional yeast, simmer	5 minutes, gentle bubbling
Finish	Season with salt, pepper, optional spices	Taste and adjust
Thicken	Optional: Mix cornstarch with water, stir in	2 minutes for thicker texture

The key is not overcooking the spinach. It should be bright green and tender. Taste frequently and adjust seasoning as needed.

✓⚡ Cook Smarter

Use fullfat coconut milk for the richest, creamiest texture that won’t separate
Don’t skip the nutritional yeast – it adds essential umami depth that mimics cheese
Pat spinach completely dry before cooking to prevent watery results

Serving and Storage Tips for Dairy Free Creamed Spinach

Serving Tips

Serve immediately while hot for best texture. This pairs beautifully with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta or roasted meats.

Garnish with fresh cracked pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil. For holidays, serve in a warming dish to maintain temperature.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of coconut milk to restore creaminess.

Mistakes to Avoid while making Dairy Free Creamed Spinach

Don’t use light coconut milk – it won’t provide enough richness. The full-fat version is essential for proper texture and flavor.

Avoid overcooking the spinach, which turns it mushy and dull green. Fresh spinach wilts quickly, so watch carefully.

Never add coconut milk to high heat directly. Reduce heat to prevent separation and maintain smooth consistency throughout.

! 🧭 Need to Know

Frozen spinach works but must be thoroughly thawed and drained to prevent watery results
Coconut milk may solidify when cold – this is normal and will smooth out when reheated
Nutritional yeast is not optional if you want authentic creamed spinach flavor depth

Suggestions for Dairy Free Creamed Spinach

Try adding sautéed mushrooms for extra umami depth. Caramelized onions instead of regular onions create sweetness that balances the earthiness.

For protein boost, fold in cooked white beans or chickpeas. This transforms the side dish into a complete meal.

Experiment with different plant milk combinations for varied flavors. Cashew cream works wonderfully too.

Make it ahead for meal prep by preparing everything except final seasoning. Professional chefs recommend reheating gently with extra liquid.

Consider pairing with Creamy Chicken Spinach Casserole for a complete spinach-themed dinner that guests will love.

FAQs:

Can I use frozen spinach for dairy free creamed spinach?

Yes, but thaw completely and squeeze out excess water. Use about 10 oz frozen spinach to replace 4 cups fresh.

What can I substitute for coconut milk in this recipe?

Cashew cream or full-fat oat milk work well. Avoid thin plant milks as they won’t create proper creaminess.

How long does dairy free creamed spinach last in the fridge?

Store covered for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop, adding liquid if needed to restore texture.

Can I make this dairy free creamed spinach ahead of time?

Yes, prepare completely then reheat before serving. Add extra coconut milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.

Is nutritional yeast necessary for this recipe?

While optional, nutritional yeast adds essential cheesy flavor depth. Without it, the dish tastes more like creamed spinach soup.

Conclusion

This dairy free creamed spinach proves plant-based cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. The coconut milk creates incredible richness while keeping the dish light and healthy.

Perfect for anyone avoiding dairy, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Your family will request this creamy, satisfying side dish again and again.