How long to cook spinach: 2–3 min pan-fried, 2–3 min steamed, 1–2 min boiled and 1–2 min in the microwave. Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
How long to cook spinach
Times are for 250 g fresh spinach, for 2–3 (it shrinks a lot).
With no added water; stir halfway. Frozen spinach takes 4–5 minutes.
Before you start
Wash and drain. Baby spinach needs nothing else; take the thick stalks off large-leaf spinach.
How to tell it’s done
Just wilted and dark green.
Questions
How long to pan-fry spinach?
2–3 min over a medium heat. Wilt in a large pan with butter or oil, turning, with the water still clinging to the leaves.
How long to steam spinach?
2–3 min over simmering water.
How long to boil spinach?
1–2 min in boiling salted water. Drain and squeeze out the water.
How long to microwave spinach?
1–2 min on full power, covered. With no added water; stir halfway. Frozen spinach takes 4–5 minutes.
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.