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Photo of a Simple Sautéed Kale.

Simple Sautéed Kale

Chef Jenn
Quick, garlicky, and full of flavor, this Simple Sautéed Kale makes a perfect, nutrient-rich side in under 15 minutes. Finished with balsamic vinegar for brightness and optional chili flakes for heat.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 132 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds kale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • red pepper flakes crushed
  • 2 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • ½ cup vegetable stock
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Instructions
 

  • Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Sprinkle them into the oil and let them bloom for a few seconds.
  • Add the garlic and cook until just tender—don’t let it brown or it’ll taste bitter.
  • Raise the heat to high, then toss in the kale and pour in the vegetable stock. Stir well to combine.
  • Cover the pan and let the kale steam for about 5 minutes to soften.
  • Uncover and cook for a few more minutes, stirring now and then, until the liquid mostly evaporates and the kale is tender but still vibrant.
  • Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with balsamic, and give it one last stir.
  • Serve hot and enjoy while it’s fresh!

Notes

Chef Jenn’s Tips

  • For a gentler flavor, opt for baby kale—it’s sweeter and softer.
  • Want more layers of flavor? Add diced onions before the garlic or fresh ginger for a bold twist.
  • Craving crunch? Finish the dish with toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts—they add a rich texture and a nutty flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 132kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 210mgPotassium: 607mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 17055IUVitamin C: 159mgCalcium: 437mgIron: 3mg

A Note on Nutritional Information

Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.

Keyword easy kale recipe, garlic kale, healthy side dish, sautéed kale
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