Sautéed kale with mushrooms is a simple yet nourishing side dish that brings together earthy, savory flavors and a satisfying texture. It’s one of those recipes that proves healthy food can be incredibly flavorful. Whether served alongside roasted meats, grilled salmon, or as part of a vegetarian meal, this dish adds both color and nutrients to your table.
To make it, start by heating a bit of olive oil or butter in a skillet. Add sliced mushrooms, such as cremini, button, or shiitake, and let them cook until they release their moisture and start to turn golden brown. Mushrooms bring a deep umami flavor that complements the kale beautifully. Once the mushrooms are ready, add minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant, this adds warmth and depth to the dish.
Next, add chopped kale leaves to the skillet. You can use curly kale or lacinato kale, depending on what you prefer. At first, it will seem like too much, but as it cooks, the kale wilts down to a perfect balance with the mushrooms. Season everything with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. A splash of vegetable broth or a squeeze of lemon juice helps soften the kale and brighten the flavors.
When the kale is tender but still vibrant green, remove the pan from the heat and finish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for richness.
Sautéed kale with mushrooms pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, or a bowl of quinoa. For a more filling meal, you can toss it with pasta or serve it over rice with a poached egg on top. It’s also delicious as a topping for toast or folded into an omelet. This dish combines simplicity with wholesome goodness, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. Nutritious, earthy, and deeply satisfying, sautéed kale with mushrooms is a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale washed and chopped
- 200 grams mushrooms sliced, any variety
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and browned.
- Add the chopped kale to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, remove from heat, and serve warm.
Nutrition
Made this for the fam. Everyone loved it, even my picky eater. Thanks!
This looks yummy! Can’t wait to try. Will it last a few days in the fridge? 🤔
Kale? No thanks! I prefer my veggies in a salad. 😖
Easy recipe! But I added a bit of cheese on top and it was sooo good. 😋
Kale is already fine without cheese, I don’t get the hype? 🤔
Cheese on kale? That’s interesting! I might try that next time. 😄
Ok, but what if I don’t like mushrooms? Any substitutions?
I think you can just leave the mushrooms out. Kale has a strong flavor so it should be fine.
You can use zucchini or bell peppers instead! They’ll give a nice flavor too.
This was a game changer for my meals! So fresh and delicious. A delightful combo of flavors!
I’m glad you loved it! Kale is so good for you, and those mushrooms really add a nice touch!
I don’t know about this. Kale? Isn’t that just rabbit food? Not sure if I’m trying it.
Isn’t kale just like cabbage? 😂 I might stick to spinach next time.
Kale and cabbage are both in the cruciferous family, but they taste different. I love kale! Spinach is good too, but give kale a chance! 🍃
What? No way! Kale is way better than cabbage! Way more flavor, trust me. Spinach is good but you gotta try more greens!
I don’t know, man. Kale’s not for everyone. Mushrooms were fine but didn’t wow me.
Too much garlic for my taste. Maybe just 1 clove next time.
I love garlic, but I get it! You could definitely dial it back if it’s too strong for you. Less is more sometimes!
1 clove? That’s not much! The recipe is perfect as it is! More garlic means more flavor!
I thought kale was just for smoothies?! This was surprisingly good.
Kale can be versatile! Glad you liked it. 😊
Surprisingly good? How’d you even cook that? I thought it was only for shakes! 🤔
simple dish, I liked it. Can I sub for spinach?
Kale rocks! My kid even ate it, and I didn’t tell him what it was.
That’s awesome! Kids can be picky, but it’s great to hear they enjoyed it! Kale is super healthy too!
I dunno, I tried kale once and it just tasted like grass. Are you sure your kid liked it or just didn’t know?
Is there a way to cook kale without making it all mushy? This looks gnarly, but idk about the texture….
This recipe is a game changer! Never thought I’d enjoy kale, but those mushrooms make all the difference. Yum!
Honestly, how can people eat kale? It’s just…why? The mushrooms helped tho.
Not bad, but I think I added too much garlic. My breath is killer now lol.
Sooo good! I added some chili flakes for a kick! Will def make again!
Chili flakes? Really? I feel like that would overpower the kale. Just saying.
That sounds delicious! I’ve been looking for ways to spice up my meals. Chili flakes are a great idea!