Creamed Spinach and Pearl Onions

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Heat a large pot over high heat until hot. Cook the spinach (with water still clinging to the leaves) in the pot, covered, until beginning to wilt, about 1 minute. Stir, and cook, covered, 1 minute more. Uncover; stir the spinach until completely wilted.

   Step 2

   Transfer the spinach to a colander; rinse under cold water. Squeeze dry in a clean kitchen towel. Finely chop; set aside.

   Step 3

   Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the onions; cook until the skins soften, about 3 minutes. Remove the onions with a slotted spoon (reserve the water in the pot); rinse. Trim the root ends, and remove the skins. Halve the onions, if large. Return the onions to the cooking water. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain, and rinse.

   Step 4

   Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour, and whisk until smooth. Whisking constantly, pour in the milk in a slow, steady stream. Boil, whisking constantly, 1 minute. Remove from heat.

   Step 5

   Melt the remaining tablespoon butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the bacon; cook, stirring occasionally, until well browned, about 6 minutes. Stir in the onions and spinach. Stir in the cream and reserved milk mixture. Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring, until heated through and thick, about 10 minutes (do not boil). Stir in the lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.