Ruth Chris Cream Spinach Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to a Classic

Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe

Indulge in the legendary Ruth Chris Steak House’s signature side dish with our authentic creamed spinach recipe. This culinary masterpiece combines the earthy flavors of fresh spinach with a luscious creamy sauce, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will elevate any meal.

Ingredients:

1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
Stir in spinach, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 2 minutes, or until heated through.
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Serve immediately.

Benefits:

Creamy and indulgent, this side dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Made with fresh spinach, it provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Versatile and pairs well with a variety of entrees.
Easy to prepare, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Tips:

For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a touch of spice.
Top with toasted almonds or crumbled bacon for added texture.
Serve with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or a juicy steak.
Make ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

In conclusion, our Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is an exquisite culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and nutritional benefits make it an exceptional choice for any occasion.

Key Aspects of Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe

The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is renowned for its exquisite taste and luxurious texture. Several key aspects contribute to its exceptional quality:

Fresh spinach: The use of fresh spinach provides a vibrant green color and a slightly bitter flavor that balances the richness of the cream sauce.
Creamy sauce: The combination of butter, flour, and milk creates a velvety smooth sauce that coats the spinach perfectly.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
Simple preparation: Despite its sophisticated taste, the recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it accessible to home cooks.
Versatile side dish: Creamed spinach pairs well with a variety of entrees, from grilled salmon to roasted chicken.
Healthy indulgence: While indulgent, creamed spinach also provides essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh spinach.
Culinary legacy: The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe has become a signature dish, synonymous with the renowned steakhouse chain.

These key aspects work together to create a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing. The combination of fresh ingredients, a creamy sauce, and the perfect blend of flavors makes Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach a culinary delight that is sure to impress.

Fresh spinach

In the context of the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe, fresh spinach plays a crucial role in achieving the dish’s signature characteristics:

Vibrant green color: Fresh spinach imparts a beautiful emerald green color to the creamed spinach, making it visually appealing and appetizing.
Slightly bitter flavor: The natural bitterness of fresh spinach balances the richness of the cream sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile. This bitterness prevents the dish from becoming overly cloying or bland.
Nutritional value: Fresh spinach is a nutrient-dense vegetable, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the dish.

The use of fresh spinach in the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is not merely a culinary choice but also a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients. Fresh spinach elevates the dish from a simple side dish to a flavorful and nutritious accompaniment.

Creamy sauce

The creamy sauce is a defining characteristic of the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe, contributing to its rich, velvety texture and delectable flavor. This sauce is a result of a harmonious blend of butter, flour, and milk:

Butter: Butter provides a rich, decadent flavor and a smooth texture to the sauce. It also helps to thicken the sauce and gives it a glossy sheen.
Flour: Flour acts as a thickening agent, creating a smooth and velvety consistency. It also helps to absorb excess moisture from the spinach, preventing the sauce from becoming watery.
Milk: Milk adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness to the sauce. It also helps to thin out the sauce to the desired consistency.

The combination of these three ingredients creates a velvety smooth sauce that perfectly coats the spinach, enhancing its flavor and creating a luxurious side dish. The creamy sauce is not only delicious but also versatile, as it can be used in various other dishes, such as pasta dishes, soups, and casseroles.

Parmesan cheese

In the context of the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe, Parmesan cheese plays a crucial role in elevating the dish’s flavor profile:

Nutty and salty flavor: Parmesan cheese imparts a distinct nutty and salty flavor to the creamed spinach, adding depth and complexity to its taste.
Umami enhancer: Parmesan cheese is rich in umami, a savory flavor that enhances the overall taste experience. It complements the richness of the cream sauce and the slight bitterness of the spinach, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Textural contrast: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a slight textural contrast to the creamy spinach, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Visual appeal: The sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the creamed spinach adds a visually appealing touch to the dish, making it both delicious and aesthetically pleasing.

The addition of Parmesan cheese to the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is not merely an afterthought but an integral part of its culinary design. It transforms the dish from a simple side dish to a flavorful and sophisticated accompaniment that complements a wide range of entrees.

Simple preparation

The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is renowned for its sophisticated taste and elegant presentation. However, surprisingly, it is also remarkably easy to prepare, making it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels.

Clear instructions: The recipe provides clear and concise instructions, making it easy to follow even for novice cooks.
Minimal ingredients: The recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, making it convenient and cost-effective.
Beginner-friendly techniques: The recipe involves basic cooking techniques, such as sauting and simmering, which are easy to master even for those with limited culinary experience.
Time-saving tips: The recipe includes time-saving tips, such as using frozen spinach and pre-grated Parmesan cheese, which reduce the preparation time without compromising the flavor.

The simplicity of the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe empowers home cooks to recreate this restaurant-quality side dish in their own kitchens. Its accessibility allows home cooks to enjoy a taste of fine dining without the hassle or expense of dining out.

Versatile side dish

The versatility of creamed spinach as a side dish is a testament to its harmonious flavor profile and ability to complement a wide range of entrees. Its creamy texture and subtle bitterness make it an ideal accompaniment to both rich and delicate dishes.

When paired with grilled salmon, the creamed spinach provides a creamy and flavorful base that balances the richness of the fish. The spinach’s slight bitterness cuts through the fattiness of the salmon, creating a harmonious and satisfying combination. Similarly, with roasted chicken, the creamed spinach adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to an otherwise simple dish. The creaminess of the spinach complements the tender chicken, while the bitterness provides a subtle contrast to the savory flavors of the roasted skin.

The versatility of the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe extends beyond these classic pairings. It can also be served alongside grilled steak, pork chops, or even pasta dishes. Its ability to enhance a variety of entrees makes it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire.

In conclusion, the versatility of the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is a key component of its appeal. Its ability to pair well with a wide range of entrees makes it a practical and delicious side dish for any occasion.

Healthy indulgence

The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe offers a unique balance between indulgence and nutrition. While its creamy texture and rich flavor may suggest otherwise, this side dish also provides a surprising amount of essential vitamins and minerals, primarily due to the incorporation of fresh spinach.

Vitamin K: Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health.
Vitamin A: Creamed spinach contains vitamin A, which is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
Iron: Spinach is a good source of iron, which is necessary for red blood cell production and oxygen transport throughout the body.
Fiber: The fresh spinach in the recipe provides dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and promotes satiety.

By incorporating fresh spinach into the creamed spinach recipe, Ruth Chris not only creates a delicious and indulgent side dish but also ensures that diners can enjoy the benefits of essential vitamins and minerals. This balance between indulgence and nutrition makes the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe a healthy and satisfying choice.

Culinary Legacy

The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe has gained iconic status, becoming synonymous with the renowned steakhouse chain. Its enduring popularity and widespread recognition can be attributed to several key factors:

Exceptional Taste: The creamed spinach recipe is a culinary masterpiece, boasting a velvety smooth texture, rich flavor, and perfect balance of creaminess and bitterness. Its unique taste profile has captivated diners for decades, making it a beloved dish.
Signature Dish: Over the years, the creamed spinach has become a signature dish for Ruth Chris Steak House. It is a dish that is inextricably linked to the restaurant’s identity and reputation for serving high-quality steak and seafood. When diners visit Ruth Chris, they often order the creamed spinach as a staple accompaniment to their entrees.
Symbol of Quality: The creamed spinach recipe has become a symbol of the Ruth Chris brand’s commitment to culinary excellence. The consistent quality and meticulous preparation of this dish reflect the restaurant’s dedication to providing its patrons with an exceptional dining experience.
Marketing and Promotion: Ruth Chris Steak House has effectively marketed and promoted the creamed spinach recipe, contributing to its widespread recognition. Through menu placement, advertising campaigns, and word-of-mouth, the dish has gained a reputation as a must-try item for both regular patrons and first-time visitors.

In conclusion, the culinary legacy of the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is a testament to its exceptional taste, enduring popularity, and symbolic value within the Ruth Chris Steak House brand. It is a dish that has transcended its culinary origins, becoming an iconic representation of the restaurant’s commitment to providing its patrons with a memorable and satisfying dining experience.

Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe

The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is a culinary masterpiece that has become synonymous with the renowned steakhouse chain. This delectable side dish combines fresh spinach, a velvety cream sauce, and a touch of Parmesan cheese to create a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements any main course.

The importance of the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe lies in its unique taste and texture. The fresh spinach provides a vibrant green color and a slightly bitter flavor that balances the richness of the cream sauce. The Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty dimension, elevating the overall taste profile. This combination of flavors and textures has made the creamed spinach a beloved dish among diners for decades.

Beyond its taste, the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe also offers several benefits. The fresh spinach is a good source of vitamins A, K, and iron, making this side dish a healthy and nutritious choice. Additionally, the cream sauce is made with butter and milk, providing a rich and indulgent experience without being overly heavy.

In conclusion, the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is a culinary delight that combines exceptional taste, nutritional value, and historical significance. Its unique blend of flavors and textures has made it a beloved side dish that perfectly complements any main course. Whether you are a regular patron of Ruth Chris Steak House or simply seeking a delicious and indulgent side dish, the creamed spinach recipe is a must-try culinary experience.

Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe

The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is a beloved side dish enjoyed by diners for its exceptional taste and luxurious texture. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this culinary masterpiece:

Question 1: What is the secret to the vibrant green color of the creamed spinach?

Answer: The use of fresh spinach is crucial for achieving the vibrant green color. Fresh spinach retains its natural chlorophyll, giving the creamed spinach its distinctive hue.

Question 2: How can I make the cream sauce richer and more flavorful?

Answer: To enhance the richness and flavor of the cream sauce, consider using heavy cream instead of milk. Additionally, adding a touch of grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the taste profile.

Question 3: Can I make the creamed spinach ahead of time?

Answer: Yes, the creamed spinach can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Question 4: What are some variations to the classic creamed spinach recipe?

Answer: To add a touch of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cream sauce. For a smoky flavor, roast the spinach in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil before adding it to the sauce. Additionally, you can incorporate sauted mushrooms or chopped artichoke hearts for a more complex flavor profile.

Question 5: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Answer: While fresh spinach is preferred for its vibrant color and texture, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute. Thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before using it in the recipe.

Question 6: What are some tips for achieving a smooth and creamy texture?

Answer: To ensure a smooth and creamy texture, make sure to whisk the flour into the melted butter until it forms a roux. This roux will help to thicken the sauce and prevent lumps. Additionally, use a whisk or immersion blender to blend the spinach into the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

In conclusion, the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is a versatile and flavorful side dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. By following these frequently asked questions and incorporating your culinary creativity, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.

Should you have any further questions or require additional guidance, do not hesitate to consult reliable culinary resources, such as cookbooks, reputable websites, or professional chefs.

Conclusion

The Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe is a culinary masterpiece that has captivated diners for decades. Its unique blend of fresh spinach, creamy sauce, and Parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors and textures that perfectly complements any main course. Beyond its exceptional taste, the creamed spinach also offers nutritional value and historical significance, making it a dish that transcends mere culinary enjoyment.

As we conclude our exploration of this iconic recipe, it is important to remember that cooking should be an enjoyable and creative process. Experiment with different variations, discover new flavor combinations, and take pride in creating dishes that bring joy to you and your loved ones. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a home cook just starting your culinary journey, the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe serves as a testament to the transformative power of food.

In the words of the renowned chef, Ruth Fertel, “Food is not just about filling stomachs; it’s about sharing, caring, and connecting.” May the Ruth Chris Creamed Spinach recipe continue to inspire culinary adventures, foster meaningful connections, and create lasting memories around the dinner table.