Sauteed Greens With Garlic

FloridaNative's Note:

Knowing how to quickly prepare nutrient-dense greens in a way that most people will enjoy is a valuable skill. Being from the South where we eat a lot of greens, they are many times over-cooked and flavored with unwanted fat. This recipe adds another dimension to a Southern favorite that's healthy and flavorful.

• Total Time: 40 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 4

Yield: 4.0

• 2 bunches fresh greens (Chard, collards, kale or mustard)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves , thinly sliced
• 1 jalapeno pepper , seeded and finely minced (optional)
• 1 -3 pinch red pepper flakes , to taste
• 1 tablespoon sherry wine vinegar or 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon kosher sea salt , plus more to taste

Directions:

1. Rinse greens well, transferring from one sink of cold water to another, until water is clear and all sediment is removed from leaves.
2. Tear or cut leaves away from tough stems and discard. Discard old or yellowed leaf sections. The stems and old leaves can cause the greens to be bitter. Coarsely chop leaves.
3. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Cook garlic, jalapeno, and pepper flakes in oil briefly, then add greens, a few handfuls at a time. Cook down each batch until leaves are just beginning to wilt (soften) before adding another handful. Add all greens to skillet in this manner.
4. Stir in vinegar and salt. Cover and cook until just tender, 2 to 10 minutes, depending on the type of greens and your preference.
5. Serve as a side dish (or a meal) with cornbread.

Reviews

[Chef #1128903]

This is a great recipe that I keep coming back to. Breaking down the greens is the most difficult part--it's just that simple, yet it provides so much flavor. The garlic and vinegar come through, and the greens maintain their integrity owing to the fact that they are not stewed for hours. I tend to enjoy them with beans, but they would complement any meal.

[JackieOhNo!]

This was really delicious! I used Swiss chard and cider vinegar and made the recipe exactly as posted. While there was definitely a kick to it from the jalapeno and red pepper flakes, it wasn't overwhelming, but just right. This is my new way to make greens! Thanks for posting.