Savoy spinach is an heirloom variety.

Dark green in color, savoy spinach has crinkled leaves and offers a very rich "green" flavor. Each leaf is five to six inches long and used as much for its appearance as for its taste. Savoy spinach has a more substantial, winter greens taste and texture than standard spinach.

Nutritional Value

Spinach is an excellent source of betacarotene, vitamin C and folate. Two cups raw chopped spinach contains about 13 calories.

Serving Ideas

Reminiscent of Swiss chard and similar to Bloomsdale spinach, both in flavor and size, this variety can be cooked for longer periods of time, and holds its shape and texture well. Ideal for sauteing and wilting, use as a substitute for collards, chard or kale. Pair with strong garlic and onion, dried fruits, citrus, pork, poultry and beef. Compliment this spinach's earthy flavor with aged cheeses, chiles, pomegranate seeds, nuts or eggs. Keep dry and refrigerated, then rinse very well before using.

Geography/History

This cool-season vegetable, Spinacia oleracea, belongs to the goosefoot family, Chenopodiaceae, and can be harvested as soon as it grows to an edible size. Growing well in the cooler regions of California, savoy spinach is not suited to growing in warmer climates. Native to Persia, now Iran where it was known as aspanakh, today this vegetable thrives in the coastal areas of California.

Seasons/Availability

Grown in cooler regions of California, savoy spinach is available early spring through early summer.