Easy Creamed Kale
User Reviews
5
Easy Creamed Kale
Description
Easy Creamed Kale begins by blanching kale to tenderize the leaves while maintaining their green color, then chopping them finely for easier eating. The kale is then sautéed briefly with garlic in melted unsalted butter, which imparts a rich and aromatic base. Heavy cream is added and gently simmered to thicken and coat the kale with a smooth texture. Seasonings include kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for subtle heat. The dish is finished with an optional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, adding a nutty, savory element.
This creamed kale makes a flavorful, comforting side dish suitable for a variety of meals where you want cooked greens with a creamy consistency instead of plain steamed kale. It pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a vegetable medley.
The recipe notes that creamed kale stores well refrigerated for several days and can be reheated gently to preserve texture. However, freezing is not recommended because the cream separation and kale texture degrade when thawed.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale center stalks removed (10-12 oz after)
- 3 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes crushed
- Parmesan Cheese optional, grated
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the kale for 5-8 minutes, until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water, then let it cool slightly. Finely chop the kale.
- In a large saute pan set over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and saute for 1 minute, then stir in the kale, cream, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, or until the cream has reduced and thickened. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Store creamed kale in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.
- Freezing is not advised because cream tends to separate and the kale texture changes after thawing.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 3servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 217 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 217kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 13g | 65% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 66mg | 22% |
| Sodium | 805mg | 34% |
| Potassium | 250mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 5094IU | 102% |
| Vitamin C | 53mg | 59% |
| Calcium | 91mg | 9% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.