Spinach with Garbanzos, Raisins, & Pine Nuts
Having quick and flavorful ingredients on hand can help you prepare this delicious and nutritious meal in no time. While relatively high in carbohydrates, the spinach and beans provide fiber, which slows the digestion & absorption of the carbohydrate – making this recipe low in glycemic load. The low sodium to potassium ratio also makes it a good choice for those challenged with high blood pressure. And the magnesium helps to maintain normal muscle and nerve function, regulate blood sugar levels, reduce chronic inflammation, and guard against anxiety and depression.
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 1-lb. bag frozen chopped spinach, thawed
- 1 15-oz. can garbanzo beans, drained, rinsed
- 1 cup raisins
- 2 tbsp. pine nuts, lightly toasted (still good even if not toasted)
- 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- Pepper to taste
In a large skillet, saute the onion and garlic in oil until the onion begins to soften, about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, toast the pine nuts in a small skillet over medium heat stirring them constantly so they do not burn. Add garbanzo beans, spinach, raisins, pine nuts, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the onion and garlic mixture. Saute over medium heat for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Makes 4 portions (each a generous cup). Each portion provides about 330 calories, 12 g protein, 58 g carbohydrate, 9 g fat (1 g sat), 0 mg cholesterol, 10 g fiber, 330 mg sodium, 820 mg potassium, 180 mg calcium, & 120 mg magnesium.