Easy High Protein Palak Paneer Recipe (Spinach Paneer)

from Swasthi’s Recipes Added: December 16, 2025

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian vegetarian dish featuring paneer simmered in a smooth, creamy spinach gravy. This easy homemade version avoids blanching spinach and uses minimal spices for a flavorful result better than restaurant versions.

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Easy High Protein Palak Paneer Recipe (Spinach Paneer)
⏱️
Prep Time
15 min
🍳
Cook Time
30 min
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
Servings
3
🟢
Difficulty
Easy

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1
    Step 1

    Pluck only the young & tender spinach leaves and discard the stems as they may leave a bitter taste. If using baby spinach you can use the stems as well.

  2. 2
    Step 2

    Add them to a large pot of water. Rinse them well few times & drain to a colander. Allow the water to drain completely otherwise it will let out lot of moisture while cooking.

  3. 3
    Step 3

    Heat half tablespoon oil in a pan. Saute green chilies, cashews and spinach for 3 to 4 mins until the leaves wilt off thoroughly & raw smell of spinach has gone away.

  4. 4
    Step 4

    Cool this completely. Blend this along with water to a smooth puree. The puree should be smooth and thick. You may add 1 to 2 tbsps more water to help in blending.

  5. 5
    Step 5

    Heat 1 tablespoon butter and half tablespoon oil to the same pan. Once they melt, add cinnamon, cardamoms, cloves & cumin seeds.

  6. 6
    Step 6

    When the spices begin to sizzle, add onions and fry till they turn transparent to golden.

  7. 7
    Step 7

    Next saute ginger garlic paste for 1 to 2 minutes or until you begin to smell it nice.

  8. 8
    Step 8

    Then add tomatoes with salt. Saute until they break down and turn mushy.

  9. 9
    Step 9

    Add garam masala & saute until the masala smells good. This may take 2 mins.

  10. 10
    Step 10

    Pour water and cook covered until onions are completely soft. There should be some water left in the pan.

  11. 11
    Step 11

    Lower the flame, add kasuri methi and pureed spinach. Mix well and cook until it begins to bubble for about 2 to 3 mins. If the curry is too thick you may add a few tbsps of hot water.

  12. 12
    Step 12

    Avoid overcooking. Add paneer & mix well. Turn off and remove to a serving bowl. Optionally garnish with cream.

  13. 13
    Step 13

    Serve palak paneer with naan, roti, Basmati rice or Jeera rice.

📊 Nutrition Facts (per serving)

350
calories
10g
protein
13g
carbs
30g
fat

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