Brighten up your plate with this simple yet flavorful recipe for Nut-Free Steamed Greens with Lemon and Garlic! Perfectly tender mixed greens—like kale, spinach, or Swiss chard—are steamed to retain their vibrant color and nutrients, then tossed in a zesty garlic-lemon oil that adds a burst of citrusy freshness. This quick and healthy dish, ready in just 20 minutes, offers a nut-free twist on classic veggie sides, making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions. Whether served alongside grilled proteins or as a light appetizer, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the wholesome goodness of leafy greens. Packed with antioxidants and seasoned to perfection with salt and pepper, it's a versatile, crowd-pleasing addition to any meal rotation.
Wash the greens thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or grit. If using larger greens like kale, remove the tough stems and chop into bite-sized pieces.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
Using a fine grater or zester, grate the zest from the lemon and then juice the lemon. Set both the zest and juice aside.
In a large pot or steaming basket, bring 2 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, place the greens into the steamer (or directly into the pot if using a steaming insert). Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes or until the greens are tender but still vibrant in color.
While the greens are steaming, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
Turn off the heat and stir the lemon zest into the garlic oil.
Once the greens are cooked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the garlic-lemon oil on top and pour in the lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve warm and enjoy as a side dish to your favorite meal.
Calories |
403 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.0 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1374 mg | 60% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.5 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.1 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.0 g | ||
| Protein | 11.7 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 586 mg | 45% | |
| Iron | 9.6 mg | 53% | |
| Potassium | 1700 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.