Discover the Power of Leafy Greens with These 18 Delicious Recipes!
Are you tired of the same old boring salads and sides? Do you want to add some excitement to your meals without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Look no further! This collection of 18 vibrant leafy green recipes is sure to inspire you to get cooking. From hearty stews and savory sautés to refreshing smoothies and decadent desserts, these dishes showcase the incredible versatility of leafy greens like kale, spinach, collard greens, and more.
Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for ways to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these recipes are perfect for anyone who loves good food and wants to eat healthy. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking up some deliciousness with these 18 vibrant leafy green recipes!
Garlic Sautéed Kale with Lemon Zest
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any meal, this garlic sautéed kale recipe adds a burst of citrusy freshness with lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet in batches if necessary, ensuring it’s all coated with the garlic oil.
4. Cook the kale, stirring frequently, until tender but still slightly crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with lemon zest and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
A flavorful and elegant main course, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Swiss Chard and White Bean Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the earthy sweetness of Swiss chard with creamy white beans, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped (about 2 cups)
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the chopped Swiss chard and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Kale and Quinoa Salad with Cranberries
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, sweetened by tart cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and chopped kale.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa-kale mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cranberries and toss gently to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (quinoa cooking time not included)
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
A Southern classic gets a savory twist with the rich flavor of smoked turkey. This hearty side dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup smoked turkey, diced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped collard greens to the skillet in batches, cooking until wilted, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
5. Stir in the diced smoked turkey, salt, and black pepper.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A delicious Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of spinach, ricotta cheese, and tender shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mustard Greens with Bacon and Onions
A classic Southern side dish gets a boost from crispy bacon and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch mustard greens, stems removed, leaves coarsely chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chopped mustard greens in boiling salted water until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Add the cooked mustard greens, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the onions. Stir to combine.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon until well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arugula and Pear Salad with Walnuts
This sweet and savory salad combines the peppery flavor of arugula, the tender sweetness of pears, and the crunch of walnuts for a delightful and refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula and pear.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the arugula mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Beet Greens and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the earthy flavor of beet greens with the tanginess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped beet greens to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Spread the cooked beet greens mixture evenly over the tart crust.
6. Top with crumbled goat cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Elevate your gathering game with this addictive spinach and artichoke dip, perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm, creamy, and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kale and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines the earthy taste of kale with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes, garlic (if using), and apple cider vinegar (if using) to the skillet with the kale. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale leaves or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Swiss Chard and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the earthy taste of Swiss chard with the savory flavor of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cups Swiss chard leaves and stems, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until absorbed.
6. Repeat step 5, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more, until all the broth is used (about 20-25 minutes).
7. Stir in the chopped Swiss chard and cook until wilted.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Collard Greens Wraps with Hummus and Veggies
A flavorful and nutritious wrap that combines the earthy taste of collard greens with creamy hummus, crunchy veggies, and crispy whole grain wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 large collard green leaf
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/2 cup shredded carrot
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 whole grain wrap
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Wash the collard green leaf and remove the stem.
3. Massage the olive oil into the leaf, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Spread the hummus on the center of the roasted collard green leaf.
6. Top with shredded carrot, sliced cucumber, and sliced red bell pepper.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Place the whole grain wrap on top of the filling.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Spinach and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the goodness of spinach and chickpeas with aromatic spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until spinach leaves wilt.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kale and Apple Smoothie
Start your day with a nutrient-packed drink that combines the earthy goodness of kale with the sweetness of apples.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1 large apple, cored and chopped
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped kale, apple, almond milk, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and the kale is fully broken down.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired texture.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 5 minutes
Mustard Greens and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of earthy mustard greens and comforting lentils, making it a delicious and nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch mustard greens, chopped
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped mustard greens and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Arugula Pesto Pasta
A fresh twist on traditional pesto pasta, this recipe combines the peppery flavor of arugula with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and linguine.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1/4 cup freshly made arugula pesto (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Arugula Pesto Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 tablespoon pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine arugula pesto, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat with pesto mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Quiche
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves to the egg mixture. Stir well.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to power up with these 18 vibrant leafy green recipes that are both healthy and delicious! From savory dishes like Garlic Sautéed Kale with Lemon Zest and Swiss Chard and White Bean Stew, to sweet treats like Beet Greens and Goat Cheese Tart and Kale and Apple Smoothie, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of kale, spinach, collard greens, or mustard greens, these recipes showcase the versatility and nutritional benefits of leafy greens. Try Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast, Collard Greens Wraps with Hummus and Veggies, or Arugula Pesto Pasta for a tasty twist on traditional dishes.