Sweet Garlic Kale

Garlic kale is a simple yet flavorful dish made by sautéing fresh kale with garlic.

Ingredients:

Prep the Kale: Wash the kale thoroughly, remove the stems, and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
Cook the Kale: Add the kale to the pan in batches if needed. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale wilts and turns a deep green color.
Season: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for some heat (if desired). Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm as a side dish or a healthy topping for grains or proteins.

Make it Spicy: If you like heat, in addition to red pepper flakes, you can add sliced fresh chili peppers (like jalapeños or serranos) when sautéing the garlic, or finish with a drizzle of hot sauce.
Crispy Kale: For a different texture, after sautéing the kale, you can spread it on a baking sheet and broil it for a few minutes until it gets crispy around the edges. This will give you a combination of tender and crispy kale in the same dish.
Add a Sweet Element: Balance the savory and garlicky flavor by adding a handful of dried cranberries or raisins at the end. This adds a pop of sweetness and texture that contrasts well with the greens.
Use Vinegar or Wine: After sautéing the kale, deglaze the pan with a splash of balsamic vinegar or white wine. The acidity adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and garlic.
Make a Kale Pesto: You can use this garlic-kale combo as a base for a twist on pesto. Add the cooked kale and garlic into a food processor with some nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, and you have a delicious, nutrient-packed kale pesto to use on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.

Over Grains: Serve the garlic kale over quinoa, rice, or farro for a healthy grain bowl.
With Eggs: Pair it with a fried egg for a delicious and nutrient-packed breakfast or brunch.
As a Side: This garlic kale pairs beautifully with roasted meats, fish, or even pasta dishes.

Choose the Right Kale: Use curly, lacinato, or red Russian kale based on your texture preference.

Prep Kale Properly: Remove tough stems, chop leaves evenly, and dry them to prevent steaming.

Don’t Burn the Garlic: Sauté garlic on low to medium heat to avoid bitterness.