If you’re looking for a comforting, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s ready in no time, this Easy Palak Paneer Recipe for Busy Days is your perfect pick! Packed with spinach (palak) and soft paneer cubes simmered in a creamy, spiced sauce, it’s a staple of Indian cuisine that tastes like restaurant-quality goodness — made right in your kitchen.
Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for the family, or just craving something quick and wholesome, this palak paneer recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
🌿 What Is Palak Paneer?
Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian vegetarian dish featuring fresh spinach (palak) blended into a silky green sauce, with chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in aromatic spices.
It’s rich in iron, calcium, and protein — and pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or roti.
🕒 Why You’ll Love This Easy Version
✅ Quick: Ready in just 25–30 minutes.
✅ Healthy: Loaded with greens and protein.
✅ One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup required.
✅ Customizable: Easily adjust spice and cream levels to taste.
Perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting and nutritious!
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Easy Palak Paneer Recipe for Busy Days:
🥬 For the Spinach Puree
4 cups fresh spinach leaves (palak), washed
1 green chili (optional, for spice)
½ cup water
🧄 For the Curry Base
2 tbsp oil or ghee
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
2 medium tomatoes, pureed
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp turmeric powder
½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
🧀 For the Final Dish
200 g paneer, cubed
2 tbsp cream or yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
1 tbsp butter (optional)
½ tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) (optional, for flavor)
🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Blanch and Blend the Spinach
Bring a pot of water to boil and add the spinach leaves.
Blanch for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
Transfer immediately to a bowl of cold water to retain the bright green color.
Drain and blend with green chili and ½ cup of water until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Curry Base
Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds; let them splutter.
Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger and garlic; cook until fragrant.
Stir in tomato puree, turmeric, coriander, chili powder, and salt.
Cook until the mixture thickens and oil begins to separate from the masala.
Step 3: Combine Spinach and Paneer
Add the spinach puree to the pan and mix well.
Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
Add paneer cubes and gently mix to coat them in the sauce.
Add cream or yogurt for a smooth finish.
Sprinkle garam masala and kasuri methi, then stir.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and drizzle with butter or cream for extra richness.
Serve hot with:
Basmati rice
Jeera rice (cumin rice)
Garlic naan
Chapati or roti
💡 Tips for Perfect Palak Paneer
🌿 Use fresh spinach: Baby spinach works best for a smooth, mild flavor.
🧄 Don’t overcook the spinach: It helps retain that gorgeous green color.
🧀 Soften paneer: Soak store-bought paneer in warm water for 10 minutes before cooking.
🥣 Adjust consistency: Add a splash of water or milk if the curry feels too thick.
🔥 Spice control: Skip the green chili or reduce chili powder for a milder version.
🧊 Storing & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
Reheat: Add a little water or cream while reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
🥄 Quick Add-Ons for Busy Days
If you’re short on time, try these shortcuts:
Use frozen spinach instead of fresh.
Use tomato paste instead of fresh puree.
Add store-bought ginger-garlic paste for faster prep.
Skip cream for a lighter version — it’s still delicious!
🏁 Conclusion
This Easy Palak Paneer Recipe for Busy Days proves that delicious homemade Indian food doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With a handful of simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, vibrant dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition.
Serve it with rice or warm naan, and enjoy the comfort of authentic Indian flavors — anytime you need a quick, satisfying meal. 🌿🍛