Easy Saag Paneer You’ll Actually Make
There’s something about saag paneer that feels like home. That creamy swirl of spinach, combined with soft paneer cubes, just hits differently. You don’t need to make it complicated to get that authentic flavor. This recipe keeps things simple but honest.
Whether you want the best saag paneer or something healthy and low fat, this version has got you covered. It’s also quick enough to whip up when time’s tight — a solid quick saag paneer that doesn’t compromise taste. If you’re after homemade saag paneer that’s as good as anything from a restaurant, read on.
Active Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
You won’t find any fuss here — just good, straightforward ingredients:
- 300g fresh spinach, washed
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee (oil if you want dairy free saag paneer)
- Salt, to taste
- Water as needed
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
Blanch your spinach in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then dunk it in ice water to lock in that color. Puree it roughly; you want some texture — it shouldn’t be a green soup.
Cooking
Heat oil, toss in cumin seeds until they pop. Add the onions and cook until golden — patience pays here. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and chilies to wake up the flavors. Pour in your tomato puree and cook till the oil separates from the masala.
Add turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix, then add the spinach puree. Thin it out with water if it feels thick. Let it simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes.
Gently fold in paneer cubes, sprinkle garam masala, and cook for another few minutes so everything marries well.
Serving
Serve steaming hot with fresh coriander sprinkled on top. Naan, roti, or basmati rice all work beautifully alongside this dish.
Nutritional Value Per One Serving
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 230
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g
Tips and Variations
Make this recipe your own with a few easy tweaks:
- Swap paneer for tofu and use oil instead of ghee to get a dairy free saag paneer.
- Grill paneer cubes before adding to reduce fat and get a low fat saag paneer with extra texture.
- Toss in dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) for that earthy, unmistakable flavor.
- If time’s tight, frozen spinach puree works great for a quick saag paneer.
Conclusion
No matter how you slice it, traditional saag paneer or a modern twist, this dish delivers comfort and flavor without fuss. It’s one of those recipes that feel like a treat but never overstay their welcome. Give it a try — you’ll wonder why you didn’t sooner.
Hungry for more? Browse our handpicked collection of delicious dinner recipes.