Description
This Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon is a quick, wholesome, and flavor-packed dish ready in under 30 minutes. Vegan-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and bursting with citrusy, savory goodness, it’s perfect as a light main or a hearty side. Garlic enhances the kale and creamy beans, while fresh lemon juice brightens every bite for a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 large bunch kale (about 5–6 cups), stems removed and chopped
- 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional for heat
Instructions
- Sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add beans: Stir in drained white beans and cook for 2–3 minutes to warm through.
- Add kale: Toss in chopped kale, cooking 4–5 minutes until wilted but still bright green.
- Finish with lemon: Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Serve: Enjoy warm as a side dish or plant-based main.
Notes
- Remove kale stems to avoid bitterness and toughness.
- Don’t overcook—kale should be tender but vibrant.
- Add lemon juice at the end to keep flavors bright.
- Customize with other greens like spinach, Swiss chard, or collards.
- Pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Vegan, Vegetarian
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: garlicky kale recipe, kale and white beans, lemon kale, vegan kale recipes, quick kale dishes