Description
Dive into the vibrant and authentic flavors of this easy Palak Paneer recipe – a creamy, comforting Indian dish made with spinach and golden fried paneer cubes. It’s the perfect choice for a quick dinner, healthy vegetarian lunch, or weeknight comfort meal. Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe combines bold spices and fresh greens into one irresistibly flavorful curry. Whether you’re craving Indian food ideas or looking for healthy dinner ideas, this is a must-try classic!
Ingredients
500g spinach
250g paneer, cut into cubes
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch ginger, grated
2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
2 tbsp heavy cream (optional)
Salt to taste
2 tbsp oil or ghee
Instructions
1. Blanch spinach in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to ice water to preserve color. Drain and blend to a smooth puree.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil or ghee in a pan, fry the paneer cubes until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, heat remaining oil. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
4. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook until aromatic.
5. Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until soft. Add turmeric and garam masala.
6. Mix in the spinach puree and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
7. Add the fried paneer cubes and stir gently. Simmer another 3–5 minutes.
8. Optional: Stir in cream for a richer texture.
9. Season with salt and adjust spices or consistency as needed.
10. Serve hot with naan, rice, or your favorite side.
Notes
Use baby spinach for a milder, sweeter flavor and brighter green color.
Always blanch and ice-shock the spinach to prevent bitterness and color loss.
Frying paneer enhances texture and helps it hold shape in the curry.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: palak paneer, easy dinner, vegetarian Indian curry, healthy recipe, Indian food ideas