If you think spinach is boring, this recipe is here to change your mind! I’ve officially cracked the code on making greens genuinely exciting with this Air Fryer Mustard Spinach. It’s the ultimate easy side dish—perfectly wilted spinach tossed in a zesty mustard and apple cider vinegar dressing that packs a serious flavor punch. Forget sad, soggy greens; this dish is vibrant, tangy, and on the table in just 15 minutes. It’s become my absolute go-to for a quick, healthy addition to any meal, and I know you’re going to love it too.
Ingredients
• 16 oz / 454 g baby spinach
• 1 tbsp mustard (Dijon or stone-ground recommended)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp chives, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Directions
2. Lightly coat an air fryer-safe pan with cooking spray.
3. In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and chopped chives. Toss thoroughly until every leaf is coated in the dressing.
4. Transfer the seasoned spinach to the prepared pan and place it in your air fryer basket.
5. Air fry at 350°F / 175°C for 10 minutes, or until the spinach is perfectly wilted and tender.
6. Carefully remove the pan, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition Information (per serving)
• Calories: 160
• Fat: 3 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
Pro Tips
• Dry Your Spinach Well:** If you wash your spinach, use a salad spinner to get it bone-dry. Excess water will steam the leaves and dilute the tangy mustard flavor.
• Work in Batches:** A full pound of spinach is a lot! To avoid steaming your greens, cook in two batches if your air fryer is small. This ensures the hot air circulates for perfectly wilted results.
• Elevate Your Mustard:** While any mustard works, using a quality Dijon or a coarse stone-ground mustard will add a much deeper, more complex flavor to the dish.
• Check Halfway Through:** All air fryers cook differently. Take a peek around the 5-minute mark to ensure your spinach doesn’t overcook. You’re looking for wilted, not mushy.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe
A: This Air Fryer Mustard Spinach recipe is designed for fresh baby spinach. Frozen spinach releases too much water, which will steam the leaves and make them soggy, diluting the zesty mustard dressing. For the best texture and flavor, stick with fresh spinach.
Q: Why is my air fryer spinach soggy
A: Soggy spinach is usually caused by excess moisture. Ensure your spinach is completely dry before adding the dressing, using a salad spinner if you’ve washed it. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in two batches if necessary to allow hot air to circulate and wilt the leaves perfectly instead of steaming them.
Q: What kind of mustard is best for this spinach recipe
A: For the most vibrant and complex flavor, we recommend using a quality Dijon or a coarse stone-ground mustard. These varieties provide a deeper, tangier punch that perfectly complements the spinach and apple cider vinegar.
Q: How do I prevent the spinach from flying around in the air fryer
A: Tossing the spinach thoroughly in the mustard and vinegar dressing helps weigh the leaves down. Using an air fryer-safe pan, as suggested in the recipe, also contains the spinach and prevents it from flying into the heating element.
