Kale is one of those greens that can truly transform a meal, offering a punch of nutrients and a satisfying texture. If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful side dish that’s both healthy and easy to prepare, this garlicky sautéed kale recipe is a fantastic choice. It brings out the best in kale with just a few ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a nutritious boost, this recipe will make you fall in love with kale all over again.
Steps
- Prepare the kale by washing it thoroughly and removing any tough stems. Tear or chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the kale, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Sauté the kale, tossing frequently, for about 2 to 4 minutes, or until the leaves have wilted.
- Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the wilted kale. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the sautéed kale immediately as a side dish or incorporate it into your favorite recipes.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of kale (such as lacinato or curly kale), washed, dried, tough stems removed, and leaves torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
FAQ
- What type of kale is best for sautéing?
- Tender lacinato kale is recommended for this recipe, but curly kale or other varieties can also be used. Be sure to wash, dry, and remove any tough stems before cooking.
- How do you prepare kale for sautéing?
- Begin by washing and drying the kale thoroughly. Remove any tough stems and chop or tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces for cooking.
- What are some ways to serve sautéed kale?
- Sautéed kale can be served as a side dish or used as a versatile ingredient in various dishes, such as frittatas, pasta, grain bowls, tacos, and even on pizza.
- How can I enhance the flavor of sautéed kale?
- To boost the flavor, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or everything bagel seasoning after cooking. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh black pepper can enhance the taste.
- How long does it take to cook sautéed kale?
- The kale takes about 2 to 4 minutes to cook until it wilts, making it a quick and easy addition to any meal.
Tips
- Prep the Kale Properly: Before cooking, make sure to wash and thoroughly dry the kale. Remove any tough stems and tear or chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Use a Large Skillet for Even Cooking: When sautéing, use a large skillet to give the kale room to cook evenly. This will help prevent overcrowding, which can cause uneven cooking.
- Enhance Flavor with Garlic and Lemon: Add garlic to the kale while cooking to boost its flavor. After cooking, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the kale to brighten the dish and enhance its taste.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While salt and pepper are essential, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or everything bagel seasoning after cooking for an extra burst of flavor.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – A good quality skillet is essential for sautéing.
- Kitchen Tongs – Useful for tossing the kale while cooking.
