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–+ servings

Zesty Lemon Garlic Kale

Transform ordinary kale into an extraordinary side dish with this quick and flavor-packed recipe. Even the most stubborn green-veggie skeptics will be coming back for seconds of this nutritious powerhouse.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 7 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 87
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large bunch fresh kale about 8-10 cups when chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4-5 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional

Method
 

  1. Thoroughly wash the kale leaves under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Remove the tough center stems from each kale leaf by holding the stem with one hand and pulling the leafy portion away with the other.
  3. Stack the leaves and roughly chop them into bite-sized pieces (about 2-inch pieces).
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  5. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the hot oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Add the chopped kale to the skillet. If it doesn't all fit at once, add as much as will fit, then add more as it wilts down.
  7. Toss the kale with tongs to coat evenly with the garlic oil mixture. Season with a pinch of salt.
  8. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the kale is bright green and tender but still has some texture.
  9. Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the kale. Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  10. If using, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 87kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 48mgFiber: 2g
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