Microwave Creamed Spinach

Ingredients:

• 350 g of small spinach
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 0.5 cups heavy cream
• 30 g cream cheese, cut into 4 pieces
• 3 tbsp. l. grated parmesan
• A pinch of cayenne pepper
• A pinch of freshly ground nutmeg
• Finely grated zest and juice of half a lemon
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs or fried onions

Preparation:

1. Place the spinach and 2 tablespoons of water in a large microwave-safe bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap; cut a small slit in the center with the tip of a knife to allow steam to escape. Microwave on high power (100%), stirring halfway through, until the spinach is wilted, about 3 minutes in an 1100W microwave or 6 minutes in a 700W microwave. Be careful not to burn yourself with hot steam when removing the wrap.
2. Combine the onion, garlic, butter, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a couple of grinds of black pepper in a microwave-safe 8-inch square baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap; cut a small slit in the center. Microwave on high power (100%) until the onions are soft and translucent, 5 minutes on an 1100-watt microwave or 8 minutes on a 700-watt microwave. If the onions are still a little firm, continue microwaving, covered, in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.
3. Squeeze the spinach to remove excess water and place it in a baking dish along with the onion mixture. Add the heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper and toss to distribute evenly. Microwave, uncovered, on high power (100%) for 5 minutes on an 1100W microwave or 7 minutes on a 700W microwave. The spinach should be hot and fizzy and the cream should be slightly thickened..
4. Add lemon juice and stir. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs or fried onions and lemon zest.