As one of the most nutritious leafy greens, kale has become a staple in many healthy diets. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it’s no wonder why kale has earned its reputation as a superfood. But let’s be real – eating plain old kale salads can get boring after a while! That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering kale recipes to spice up your meal routine. From savory sautés to sweet smoothies, these recipes showcase the versatility of this mighty green. Whether you’re a kale newbie or a longtime fan, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Read on to discover the best ways to incorporate more kale into your diet and elevate your cooking game!
Garlic Butter Sautéed Kale
Transform a handful of kale into a delicious, flavorful side dish with this simple recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and richness of butter. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and leaves torn
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the kale to the skillet in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per batch, stirring frequently, until the leaves are tender but still crisp.
4. Season with salt and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges or crusty bread crumbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Crispy Baked Kale Chips
Transform ordinary kale into a crunchy, flavorful snack with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and some careful attention to drying, you’ll be enjoying crispy baked kale chips in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chili powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Rinse the kale leaves and remove stems.
3. Dry the kale thoroughly with a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4. In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the kale and massage until leaves are evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle salt and any desired seasonings to taste.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the kale out in a single layer.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your crispy baked kale chips as a healthy snack or add them to salads, sandwiches, or wraps for an extra crunch!
Creamy Kale and Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the richness of potatoes with the earthiness of kale. This creamy delight is perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the butter, onion, and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped potatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add the flour and cook for an additional minute.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kale and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil to make the vinaigrette.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking time for quinoa not included)
Spicy Kale and Sausage Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines spicy Italian sausage with curly kale and a hint of red pepper flakes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The spicy kick from the sausage and red pepper is balanced by the slightly bitter flavor of the kale.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve with Parmesan cheese on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kale and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender greens, creamy beans, and aromatic spices. A comforting and nutritious meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Kale Pesto with Toasted Pine Nuts
This vibrant green pesto is a flavorful twist on the classic Italian sauce, packed with nutrients from kale and the rich taste of toasted pine nuts. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread pine nuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine kale leaves, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Process until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Kale and Sweet Potato Hash
Transform your brunch game with this nutrient-packed dish that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutritional powerhouse of kale.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon 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 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped kale and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted (about 5 minutes).
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the kale. Stir to combine and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Kale and Sweet Potato Hash!
Kale and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the nutty taste of kale, creating a nutritious and delicious stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the kale and stir-fry until it starts to wilt, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kale and Avocado Smoothie
Experience the perfect blend of creamy and green with this refreshing kale and avocado smoothie recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped kale, avocado, almond milk, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Kale and Chickpea Curry
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious kale and chickpeas. It’s an ideal meal for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Add chopped kale; cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 10 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kale Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic stuffed mushroom, featuring tender portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of kale, garlic, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 2 cups fresh kale leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the kale-garlic mixture, followed by a sprinkle of grated cheese.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Kale and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe for Kale and Feta Stuffed Chicken!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the cooked kale, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic.
4. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the kale-feta mixture.
5. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kale and Lentil Soup
Warm and comforting, this Kale and Lentil Soup recipe is a perfect way to cozy up on a chilly day. With the nutritious combination of kale, lentils, and aromatic spices, you’ll be treating your body and soul to a delicious and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, water or broth, and chopped kale. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kale and Berry Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast bowl packed with kale, berries, and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss kale with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and a pinch of pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix together oats, Greek yogurt, and honey.
4. Divide the roasted kale among four bowls. Top each bowl with a spoonful of the oat mixture, followed by a sprinkle of mixed berries.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes (including roasting time)
Kale and Goat Cheese Flatbread
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of kale with the creaminess of goat cheese on a crispy flatbread crust, making for a delicious and healthy snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flours and salt.
3. Gradually add olive oil and warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm) on a lightly floured surface.
5. Top with kale leaves, goat cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kale and Bacon Wrapped Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon, tangy kale, and tender salmon for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, massage the kale leaves with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender.
4. Wrap each salmon fillet with 1-2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place the wrapped salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top each fillet with a handful of kale leaves.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Kale and Apple Salad with Walnuts
As the seasons change, this refreshing salad celebrates the best of fall’s flavors. Crisp kale, sweet apples, and toasted walnuts come together in a delightful harmony.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss kale with 1 tablespoon olive oil and salt to taste on a baking sheet.
3. Roast kale in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly wilted.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted kale, diced apple, and chopped walnuts.
5. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar.
6. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kale and Parmesan Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the earthy flavor of kale with the nutty taste of parmesan cheese, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this delicious dish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kale and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the earthy goodness of kale with the rich flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crunchy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 taco shells
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the black beans and stir to combine with the kale mixture.
7. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
8. Assemble the tacos by spooning the kale and black bean mixture into each shell.
9. Add desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to go green with these 20 delicious kale recipes! From classic sautéed kale with garlic butter to creative dishes like kale and quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette, there’s something for every palate. Indulge in crispy baked kale chips or creamy kale and potato soup. Try your hand at spicy kale and sausage pasta, or go international with kale and white bean stew. And don’t forget about the sweet treats – like kale and sweet potato hash! Whether you’re a kale newbie or a superfood superstar, this collection has you covered.
