Elevate your meals with this vibrant and nutrient-packed Whole30 Sautéed Kale with Garlic and Lemon recipe—a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with any protein. Fresh kale takes center stage, sautéed to tender perfection in garlic-infused olive oil, then brightened with the tangy zest of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish captures a balance of savory and citrusy notes while staying true to Whole30 guidelines. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s an essential recipe for healthy eating, whether for a weekday dinner or meal prep. Perfect for serving warm alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon, it’s a fuss-free way to turn leafy greens into a crave-worthy delight.
Begin by washing the kale thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt and debris.
Pat the kale dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Remove the tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
Cut the lemon in half and juice it, setting the juice aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the chopped kale to the skillet and toss well to coat the leaves with the garlic-infused oil.
Sauté the kale for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the leaves are tender and have reduced in volume.
Season the kale with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle the lemon juice over the cooked kale.
Toss the kale again to incorporate the lemon juice evenly.
Serve the sautéed kale warm as a side dish to complement your Whole30 meals.
Calories |
371 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.2 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1291 mg | 56% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 27.5 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.9 g | 28% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.4 g | ||
| Protein | 7.8 g | 16% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 559 mg | 43% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 872 mg | 19% | |
*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.