A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Yield: 4 servings. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 3 pounds fresh baby spinach, stems removed if preferred 1 teaspoon garlic powder ½ cup heavy whipping cream

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

Yield: 4 servings. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 3 pounds fresh baby spinach, stems removed if preferred 1 teaspoon garlic powder ½ cup heavy whipping cream

Fresh Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach

Yield: 4 servings.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 pounds fresh baby spinach,
stems removed if preferred
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup heavy whipping cream
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup vegetable stock
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste

In a large stock pot over medium heat, add butter and onion; cook until onion becomes translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Reduce heat to medium-low and add fresh spinach. Cover with lid and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, heavy cream, cream cheese, vegetable stock, parmesan, and nutmeg. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

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This story was published on Jan 13, 2026

Lynn Wells

Lynn Wells gained a fond respect and interest in cooking from her mother and Aunt Addie at the age of 8 in North Carolina. During college, Wells worked in a wide range of restaurants, from fine dining to family- owned. After graduating from UNC Greensboro with a degree in nutrition management and hospitality, Wells began a 21-year career in the nutrition department at Cone Health. In 2014, Wells started Thyme Well Spent Personal Chef Service, an in-home cooking experience for private clients, which continues today. Wells is also a food writer, food stylist, culinary consultant, and the recipe developer/writer for Our State.