Rapid Garlic Butter Steamed Greens

Pick through the spinach, removing any tough stems or yellowed leaves. Rinse well under cold water and shake off excess moisture—you want it damp, not dripping.

Mince the 4 cloves of garlic finely. Cut the lemon in half; set one half aside for serving.

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and minced garlic. Microwave on full power for 45 seconds. Stir well—your kitchen should smell like a garlic dream. Set aside.

Add the damp spinach to the bowl with the garlic butter. Pour in 2 tablespoons of water. Cover tightly with a microwave-safe plate or lid.

Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Let rest 30 seconds (the steam finishes the job). Remove cover, stir the greens, and check texture—they should be bright green and tender with a slight bite.

Squeeze the juice from the remaining lemon half directly over the greens. Season with salt and black-pepper. Toss everything vigorously until the garlic butter coats every leaf evenly.

Serve immediately while still steaming. The cheese-averse might want to know: this also works topped with a handful of mozzarella if you feel like being radical.