Salty boiled kale

Salty boiled kale is a quick and nutritious side dish that features tender kale cooked in salted water. This simple preparation highlights the greens' natural flavors and pairs well with various main courses.

09 Jan 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 cup kale
1 cup water
1 dash salt

Salty boiled kale is a simple and nutritious dish that can be prepared quickly with minimal ingredients. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create a tender, flavorful kale side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by thoroughly washing the kale to remove any dirt or grit. Once clean, chop the kale into bite-sized pieces.

2. Boil the Water:
- In a medium-sized pot, bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.

3. Add the Kale:
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the chopped kale to the pot. Use a spoon to ensure all the kale is submerged under the boiling water.

4. Season with Salt:
- Sprinkle a dash of salt over the kale and water. Stir gently to evenly distribute the salt.

5. Cook the Kale:
- Allow the kale to boil for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes tender and reaches your desired level of doneness. Avoid overcooking to maintain some of its texture and bright green color.

6. Drain the Kale:
- After cooking, carefully pour the contents of the pot into a colander to drain the water. You can press down lightly with the back of a spoon to remove excess water if needed.

7. Serve:
- Transfer the drained kale to a serving bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding a little more salt if desired.

8. Enjoy:
- Serve your salt-seasoned boiled kale as a nutritious side dish to accompany your meal. This simple preparation highlights the natural flavors of the kale and is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet.

Cooking kale this way brings out its natural flavors while maintaining its nutritional benefits. Whether you're looking for a quick side dish or a healthy addition to your meal, salt-seasoned boiled kale is a fantastic option. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious kale!

Salty boiled kale FAQ:

How long should I boil kale for the best texture?

Boil the kale for 5-7 minutes. This timeframe ensures the kale becomes tender while retaining some texture and its bright green color.

Can I use other types of greens instead of kale?

Yes, you can substitute kale with other leafy greens like Swiss chard, collard greens, or spinach. However, cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of green.

What is the best way to store leftover boiled kale?

Store leftover boiled kale in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving.

Can I add other seasonings or ingredients to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding garlic, lemon juice, or chili flakes. Just be mindful not to overpower the natural taste of the kale.

Is it necessary to wash the kale before cooking?

Yes, thoroughly wash the kale to remove any dirt or grit before chopping and cooking. This step is important for cleanliness and ensuring a better flavor.

Tips:

- Make sure to thoroughly rinse the kale under cold water to remove any dirt or debris before boiling.

- Tear the kale leaves into smaller pieces for even cooking and easier consumption.

- Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil after boiling to enhance the flavor.

- For a little extra flavor, you can add a clove of crushed garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the boiling water.

- To retain the bright green color of the kale, you can plunge it into ice water immediately after boiling to stop the cooking process, then drain thoroughly before serving.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 30kcal
Protein 1.96g
Carbohydrates 2.96g
Fiber 2.75g
Sugar 0.54g
Fat 1.00g

Salty boiled kale