How to Make the Perfect Garlic Herb Steamed Kale
American · Easy · 6 min · 2 servings
This garlic herb steamed kale cooks in the microwave in just a few minutes for a deeply nutritious quick side dish. Bright lemon and garlic elevate the earthy kale into something you will want to make every night.
Why this recipe works
This Garlic Herb Steamed Kale recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 6 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 80 calories with 4g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 4 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 cups kale leaves torn and stems removed
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prep the Kale
Remove tough stems from kale and tear leaves into bite-sized pieces. Rinse under cold water but do not dry completely as the residual water helps steam the kale.
Step 2: Microwave Kale
Place damp kale in a large microwave-safe bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted and bright green.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Carefully uncover the steaming kale and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Toss with minced garlic, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- kale → Swiss chard or spinach which cook even faster
- lemon juice → apple cider vinegar for a tangy alternative
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Over-drying kale before microwaving which causes it to dry out rather than steam
- Adding garlic before microwaving which turns it bitter from the intense heat
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 80 calories, 4g protein, 8g carbs, 5g fat, 3g fiber.
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