If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful way to elevate your greens, this 10-minute Creamed Kale and Spinach dish is your new go-to recipe! Packed with nutrients, rich in flavor, and incredibly versatile, this low-carb side dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even weekly meal prep.
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Calories: 228kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 433mg | Potassium: 599mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 13019IU | Vitamin C: 93mg | Calcium: 432mg | Iron: 3mg
Why You’ll Love It:
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 10 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
- Low-Carb and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and a dose of healthy fats, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal prepping for the week, this versatile side dish is a crowd-pleaser.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, onion, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese transforms simple greens into a rich, savory treat.
Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
- Frozen Kale: Kale is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Using frozen kale makes this dish even more convenient, as it’s pre-washed and ready to go. Thawing it and squeezing out the excess water helps maintain a creamy texture without any unwanted moisture. Kale’s slightly bitter flavor balances perfectly with the richness of the cream, making it an excellent base for this dish.
- Fresh Baby Spinach: Spinach adds a tender, mild flavor that complements the kale without overpowering it. It’s also a great source of iron, vitamins, and minerals. Fresh spinach wilts quickly when added to the pan, blending seamlessly with the kale and absorbing the creamy sauce. The freshness of spinach helps lighten the dish while still contributing to its nutritious profile.
- Yellow Onion: Onions provide a savory base with a subtle sweetness that deepens as they cook. Sautéing the onion brings out its natural sugars, adding a layer of complexity to the dish. The onion’s aromatic flavor helps balance the earthy bitterness of the kale and enhances the richness of the cream.
- Garlic: Garlic is the perfect flavor enhancer, adding depth and warmth to the dish. When sautéed, garlic becomes fragrant and sweet, infusing the oil with its bold flavor. It works harmoniously with the onion and the cream, giving the dish a savory, aromatic foundation that brings everything together.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds the luxurious, velvety texture that makes this dish feel indulgent without being overly rich. The cream softens the bitterness of the kale and spinach, creating a smooth, comforting base. It also helps to meld the flavors of the other ingredients into one cohesive, creamy sauce.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan brings a salty, umami-packed flavor that elevates the dish. It adds richness and a touch of nuttiness, enhancing the creaminess of the sauce. As it melts into the greens, it creates a smooth, cheesy texture that coats the kale and spinach beautifully, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
How to Make Creamed Kale and Spinach
- Prep the Kale: Start by thawing the frozen kale according to the package instructions. Once thawed, use your hands or a towel to squeeze out any excess water, so the dish doesn’t become too watery.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
- Make it Creamy: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. If it starts to bubble too much, reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the Greens: Add the thawed kale and fresh spinach to the pan. Stir well to combine, and cook for about 2 minutes, until the spinach wilts and reduces in size.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the greens. Stir until the cheese melts and coats the greens evenly, creating a creamy texture.
- Season and Serve: Add salt (or to taste) and stir one last time to ensure everything is well-seasoned and evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Ingredient Pairings for Creamed Kale and Spinach:
- Grilled Chicken: The creamy, rich texture of the kale and spinach pairs wonderfully with lean grilled chicken. You can serve this dish as a side or even top the chicken with the creamed greens for a complete meal.
- Salmon: The slight bitterness of the greens contrasts nicely with the rich, flaky texture of salmon. The flavors work well together, creating a well-rounded plate.
- Grilled Tofu or Tempeh: For a plant-based option, tofu or tempeh works well with this dish. The protein’s subtle flavor complements the richness of the creamed greens, making for a satisfying vegan meal.
- Steak: A juicy, well-seasoned steak with creamed kale and spinach is a hearty and satisfying combination, perfect for a more indulgent meal.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil adds a burst of freshness and color. Herbs can help brighten up the dish and balance the creaminess.
- Lemon Zest or Juice: A touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice adds acidity, cutting through the richness of the cream and brightening up the dish.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the dish for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh kale instead of frozen kale?
Yes! You can use fresh kale instead of frozen kale. Just be sure to remove the tough stems and chop it into smaller pieces. Since fresh kale wilts down more quickly than frozen, you may need to sauté it a bit longer to achieve the desired texture.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pan. This will help prevent the dish from becoming too watery. If using frozen spinach, reduce the cooking time slightly since it’s already cooked.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream (like coconut cream or almond milk) and use nutritional yeast in place of the shredded parmesan. This will keep the dish creamy and flavorful without the dairy.
Creamed Kale and Spinach
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
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Nutrition