Spinach With Sesame Seeds

This is a tasty way to take the boring out of spinach -- sauteing spinach Japanese style with toasted sesame seeds. Plus it's quick and easy to prepare, too.

I've had Spinach with Sesame Seeds at my local 99 cent per piece sushi restaurant, served as a cold condiment (click here for my sushi restaurant review). But I've made it at home as a regular side dish served warm, and I actually like it better that way.

I always find fresh spinach at 99c only Stores, and my local Latin market sells a large bunch for the same price. And I always have a dollar store bottle of sesame seeds on hand for making fresh hummus (video recipe here).

Also, sauteing spinach in a teaspoon of sesame oil makes for a less sloppy side - no need draining typically soggy steamed spinach.

My Oriental styled spinach is a tasty spin I hope you will enjoy.

Ingredients

• Package of spinach - or an unpackaged bunch (be sure to wash well and cut off longer stems).
• 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds - lightly browned in pan. Okay to sprinkle uncooked on spinach as well - just results in a milder taste.
• 1 teaspoon of oil - sesame, or any type.
• Pinch of salt - to taste.

Directions
Add teaspoon of sesame seeds to a medium heated pan, and stir frequently. You'll need to hover over the pan for 2 - 5 minutes when toasting sesame seeds - they can burn quickly once the browning starts. Scrape out seeds into a bowl or small plate when done and set aside.

Pour in 1 teaspoon of oil into pan and swirl to coat well. Add spinach and stir as it wilts - it will soften quickly after a couple of minutes. Season with salt to taste. Transfer to your plate or a bowl and sprinkle on toasted (or raw) sesame seeds. Serve warm or at room temperature.