Sautéed Kale with Garlic and Red Wine Vinegar Recipe
Introduction
Sautéed kale is a simple, flavorful side dish that brings out the best in this nutritious leafy green. With garlic, a touch of heat, and a splash of red wine vinegar, it’s a quick way to enjoy kale’s hearty texture and mild bitterness.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 10 ounces chopped kale
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth (can also use water)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about one minute. Add the chopped kale to the skillet, increase the heat to high, then pour in the broth. Stir to coat the kale evenly, cover the skillet, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Step 2: Remove the lid and add the salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Continue cooking uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated.
- Step 3: Turn off the heat and pour in the red wine vinegar. Toss the kale to coat it well with the vinegar before serving.
- Step 4: Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful sautéed kale.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier flavor, try finishing with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.
- Substitute lemon juice for red wine vinegar for a brighter, citrusy taste.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika along with the red pepper flakes for a smoky twist.
Storage
Store leftover sautéed kale in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the kale’s texture and flavor.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of kale for this recipe?
Yes, both curly kale and dinosaur (Lacinato) kale work well. Just make sure to remove thick stems for a tender result.
What can I substitute if I don’t have red wine vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice are great alternatives that will still add a nice tang to the dish.
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Sautéed Kale with Garlic and Red Wine Vinegar Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful sautéed kale recipe that combines garlic, red wine vinegar, and a touch of spice to create a nutritious side dish. This quick and easy method brings out the best in kale, making it tender with a bright, tangy finish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 10 ounces chopped kale
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth (can also use water)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Sauté garlic: Using a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic; sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about one minute.
- Add kale and broth: Add chopped kale to the skillet, increase the heat to high, pour in the broth, and stir to coat the kale evenly.
- Cook covered: Cover the skillet and let the kale cook for 5 minutes to soften it while steaming in the broth.
- Season and reduce liquid: Remove the lid, add salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook uncovered for an additional 2 to 3 minutes or until the liquid has evaporated.
- Add vinegar and toss: Turn off the heat, add red wine vinegar, and toss the sautéed kale to coat evenly with the vinegar’s tangy flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a nutritious and delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use vegetable broth or water.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- You can substitute red wine vinegar with lemon juice for a different acidic note.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Be sure to wash kale thoroughly before chopping and cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sautéed kale, garlic kale, healthy side dish, quick kale recipe, sautéed greens

