This sautéed kale with garlic, onion, and bacon recipe strikes the perfect balance of savory and healthy. The smoky, crispy bacon complements the earthy flavor of kale, while garlic and onions elevate the dish with aromatic depth. This most awesome recipe is both nutritious and indulgent, making it a great side dish or even a light meal on its own.
1. The Most Awesome Sauteed Kale Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large bunch of kale (curly or lacinato kale)
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, depending on the amount of bacon fat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for a bright finish)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Kale
Wash and prep the kale: Thoroughly wash the kale to remove any dirt or grit. Remove the tough stems by folding each leaf in half and cutting or tearing the stem away. Roughly chop the kale into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet or sauté pan, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the bacon halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Drain and crumble: Once the bacon is crispy, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Cook the onions: In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the diced onions and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.
Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Sauté the Kale
Add the kale: Add the chopped kale to the pan with the onions and garlic. If the pan seems too dry, you can drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the kale.
Cook the kale: Toss the kale in the pan so it gets coated in the bacon fat, onions, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale wilts down and becomes tender. It should still have a slight bite but not be tough.
Season: Season the kale with salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Step 5: Add the Bacon and Finish
Add the bacon: Once the kale is cooked, stir in the crumbled bacon.
Optional finish: For a bright, tangy finish, drizzle 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice over the kale and toss to combine. This helps cut through the richness of the bacon and adds a fresh element.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot: Transfer the sautéed kale to a serving dish and enjoy immediately. This dish is perfect as a side for baked meats, roasted chicken, or even as a topping for rice or pasta.
2. Variations
Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and sauté the onions and garlic in 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter. You can also add toasted nuts (like almonds or pine nuts) or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Spicy Kale: Add 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the onions and garlic for a spicy kick.
Add More Vegetables: You can add other veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauté for a heartier side dish.
3. What to Serve with Sautéed Kale
Baked or Roasted Meat: Pair with baked chicken, steak, or pork chops for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Eggs: Serve alongside fried eggs or as a base for a breakfast bowl with eggs and avocado.
Pasta or Grains: Toss the sautéed kale with pasta, quinoa, or rice for a healthy, filling main dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with other roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a colorful, nutritious plate.
4. Leftovers and Storage
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the kale seems dry.
This sautéed kale with garlic, onion, and bacon recipe is the ultimate side dish that combines rich, smoky bacon with the nutritious bite of kale. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
