Quick Kale with Bacon

Elevate your weeknight side dishes with this savory and satisfying Quick Kale with Bacon recipe. In just 20 minutes, earthy kale is transformed into a tender, garlicky delight, perfectly complemented by crispy, smoky bacon. A hint of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat, while garlic infuses every bite with bold flavor. The simple steaming technique ensures the kale stays vibrant and nutrient-rich, making this dish as healthy as it is delicious. Serve it alongside roasted meats, as a hearty topping for grains, or even as a standalone low-carb option. Perfect for busy days, this easy kale recipe is your go-to for quick, flavorful, and wholesome cooking!

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large garlic cloves
• 8 cups kale
• 0.25 cup water
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Chop the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon becomes crispy (about 5-6 minutes). Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet; if there is excess, discard it carefully.

Step 3

While the bacon cooks, peel and mince the garlic cloves into small pieces.

Step 4

Add the olive oil to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.

Step 5

Wash and trim the kale, removing any tough stems. Cut or tear the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces if needed.

Step 6

Add the kale to the skillet and toss it gently to coat it in the garlic oil mixture.

Step 7

Pour the water into the skillet, cover with a lid, and let the kale steam for 2-3 minutes until slightly wilted.

Step 8

Uncover the skillet, add the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, and stir well. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the kale is tender but still bright green.

Step 9

Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss it with the kale to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if desired.

Step 10

Serve immediately as a delicious side dish or over rice for a quick and nourishing meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	307.1 grams (307.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	365

Total Fat 28.30g	36%
Saturated Fat 6.40g	32%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.60g
Cholesterol 32mg	11%
Sodium 646mg	28%
Total Carbohydrate 10.10g	4%
Dietary Fiber 8.50g	30%
Total Sugars 1.70g
Protein 16.90g	34%

Vitamin D 5IU	26%
Calcium 519mg	40%
Iron 4mg	21%
Potassium 875mg	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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 70.2%

Protein: 18.6%

Carbs: 11.1%