I've read about things such as bagged spinach being recalled due to e.coli. how can we stay safe but still enjoy these things? should we avoid them?

Wash thoroughly: It would help to wash even the pre-washed fresh greens. Avoiding fresh vegetables is not a good idea. The e-coli contaminations are rare.

Avoid bags : It's best to buy fresh whole vegetables, and prepare them yourself. The packaged items are more expensive, and the handling and bagging provide more opportunity for bacterial growth.