Ah, kale—a leafy green that’s either love at first bite or a taste to acquire. Personally, it’s my go-to when I need a quick, healthy fix. This sautéed kale recipe, with its garlic and olive oil, is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, especially when paired with.
. . well, just about anything!
But you know what? Sometimes I just eat it straight from the pan—don’t judge!
Steps
- Prepare the kale by removing and discarding the tough stems, and chop or tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped kale, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
- Sauté the mixture for 2 to 4 minutes, using tongs to toss the kale until it wilts.
- Turn off the heat, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the kale, and toss again. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and serve.
Ingredients
- Kale (lacinato or curly) – washed, dried, and tough stems removed; leaves torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1-2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Lemon juice (from about 1/2 lemon)
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
FAQ
- What type of kale is best for sautéing?
- Tender lacinato kale is highly recommended for sautéing due to its texture and flavor, but curly kale can also be used. Just ensure to wash, dry, and remove any tough stems before cooking.
- Can I alter the seasonings in this sautéed kale recipe?
- Absolutely! While the basic recipe uses garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, you can easily change the flavor profile by adding crushed red pepper flakes or everything bagel seasoning to the cooked kale.
- How can sautéed kale be incorporated into other meals?
- Sautéed kale is versatile and can be used in various dishes. It can enhance frittatas, pasta dishes, grain bowls, tacos, quesadillas, and even pizza. It pairs well with a variety of proteins and sauces to create a balanced meal.
- Is sautéed kale a nutritious choice?
- Yes, sautéed kale is packed with nutrients and offers a healthy addition to your diet. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a beneficial component of many meals.
- How long does it take to cook sautéed kale?
- The kale cooks quickly, taking about 2 to 4 minutes to wilt down in a skillet. Including prep time, the entire process takes approximately 15 minutes.
Tips
- Prep the Kale Properly: Before cooking, wash and thoroughly dry the kale. Remove the tough stems and chop or tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Enhance Flavor with Garlic: Add garlic to the sauté for an extra burst of flavor. Make sure not to burn it by keeping the heat at medium and stirring frequently.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: After removing the pan from the heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the kale. This brightens the dish and balances the flavors.
- Experiment with Seasonings: For an added twist, try sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes or everything bagel seasoning over the cooked kale.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Tongs
