Garlicky Mediterranean Sautéed Kale

Servings: 2 Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Beginner
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A 15-Minute Powerhouse of Flavor & Nutrients!

Garlicky Mediterranean Sautéed Kale

Discover the essence of Mediterranean simplicity with this vibrant Sautéed Kale! Bursting with garlic-infused olive oil and a zesty lemon finish, this dish transforms humble kale into a restaurant-worthy side.

Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, it’s nutrient-dense, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly. Kale’s earthy bitterness mellows into tender perfection, while garlic adds a fragrant punch. Ready in minutes, it’s a foolproof way to savor the heart-healthy magic of the Mediterranean.

Recommended Occasions: Weeknight dinners, Meal-prep lunches, Holiday side dish (e.g., Easter, Thanksgiving), Quick healthy snack.

Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 15 mins Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 300  F Servings: 2 Calories: 180 kcal Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Optional Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prep kale:

    Rinse leaves, strip stems, tear into 2-inch pieces. Pat dry.

  1. Sauté garlic:

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat (300°F/150°C). Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 1-2 mins until fragrant (don’t brown!).

  1. Cook kale:

    Increase heat to medium-high (375°F/190°C). Add kale and broth. Toss 3-4 mins until wilted but bright green.

  1. Finish:

    Off heat, stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.

  1. Serve:

    Transfer to a bowl. Drizzle with extra oil if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2


Amount Per Serving
Calories 180kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 15g24%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Sodium 85mg4%
Potassium 490mg15%
Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 2g
Protein 4g8%

Vitamin A 5000 mcg
Vitamin C 120 mg
Calcium 150 mg
Iron 2.5 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • Greens swap: Use Swiss chard or spinach (reduce cooking time).
Keywords: sautéed kale recipe, Mediterranean kale, garlic kale vegan, healthy side dish, quick kale recipe, gluten-free greens

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I use frozen kale?

Yes! Thaw and squeeze out excess water. Sauté 1-2 mins longer to evaporate moisture.

How do I reduce kale’s bitterness?

Massage leaves with 1 tsp oil and salt before cooking, or add 1 tsp honey while sautéing.

Is this keto-friendly?

Absolutely! One serving has 7g net carbs (10g total - 3g fiber).

Can I meal-prep this?

Yes! Store refrigerated for 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

Why is my kale soggy?

Overcrowding the pan or not drying leaves properly. Cook in batches if needed.

How to add protein?

Top with chickpeas, white beans, or grilled chicken.