In the realm of delectable vegetarian dishes, Italian greens with sautéed onions and garlic stand out as a symphony of flavors. Originating from the vibrant culinary traditions of Italy, this dish showcases the rustic charm of fresh greens, expertly combined with aromatic onions and garlic. Its simplicity belies a depth of taste that will tantalize your palate. The recipe offers variations to suit diverse dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.
For those seeking a traditional experience, the classic Italian greens recipe features a vibrant blend of escarole, Swiss chard, and kale, sautéed in a flavorful combination of olive oil, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. A splash of white wine adds a touch of acidity and complexity, while a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese imparts a nutty richness.
For a lighter and vegan-friendly alternative, the recipe offers a vibrant sauté of spinach, kale, and Swiss chard. Garlic, lemon zest, and a hint of Dijon mustard create a harmonious balance of flavors, complemented by toasted pine nuts for a delightful textural contrast. This variation caters to those with dietary restrictions or those seeking a healthier option without compromising on taste.
Quinoa lovers will delight in the Italian greens and quinoa bowl, a wholesome and protein-packed meal. Tender quinoa is combined with sautéed greens, sun-dried tomatoes, and a zesty lemon-tahini dressing. Topped with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, this bowl offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors.
For those with gluten intolerance or a preference for a lower-carb option, the recipe includes a gluten-free version. Using gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat pasta, this dish retains its authentic Italian flavors while accommodating dietary restrictions. The combination of sautéed greens, garlic, and chili flakes creates a savory sauce that perfectly coats the pasta, making it a delightful and inclusive meal choice.
Each recipe is accompanied by step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure a successful culinary experience. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this article provides all the guidance you need to recreate these delectable Italian greens dishes in the comfort of your own home.
SAUTEED ESCAROLE
This recipe for Sauteed Escarole provides a slightly sweet taste with an unbelievably silky texture. This Italian side dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free and delicious.
Provided by Maria Vannelli RD
Categories Side Dish
Time 35m
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Set a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Once the water has started boiling, add the chopped escarole, and simmer for about 5 minutes. The total time will vary based on how tough the leaves are.
- Meanwhile, over medium heat, drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat.
- Lower the heat to medium, add the sliced garlic (3-4 cloves) and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Take care not to let the garlic brown.
- If desired, add a pinch or two of crushed red pepper
- Remove from heat.
- By this time, the parboiled escarole should be tender. Remove with a slotted spoon, allowing the excess water to drain off and place in a bowl. There will be a little bit of liquid that accumulates at the bottom of the bowl.
- Next, add the drained escarole to the pan of sauteed garlic along with a couple of tablespoons of the drained liquid.The oil might splatter a little so be careful.
- Return the pan back to medium heat and simmer for about 5-10 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated. If there is still a bit of liquid left, raise the heat to cook it off.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to a serving dish and if desired serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 serving, Calories 231 kcal, Carbohydrate 9 g, Protein 3 g, Fat 21 g, Sodium 51 mg, Fiber 7 g, SaturatedFat 3 g, Sugar 1 g
SAUTEED COLLARD GREENS WITH GARLIC, PEPPERS AND ONIONS
Steps:
- Remove and discard all but 1 inch of the collard stems. Cut the remaining stems out of the leaves, separating the leaves and stems. Cut the leaves into 2-inch squares. Slice the stems into thin slices.
- Wash the leaves in a big basin of water. Leave the water in the basin or sink and use a strainer to dip the leaves out of the water. Don't wash the leaves inside a colander or pour the water off the container with the leaves inside; this would allow any sand to stay with the greens. Wash the stems separately in the same basin of water, using the same method as the leaves.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons salt. Have a colander ready in the sink to drain the greens and a bowl of water with ice cubes in it to chill the greens.
- Cook the stems for 1 minute. Add the leaves, and once they turn bright green, fish out a small leaf to taste it. The greens are done when they taste tender. You can't really tell whether the greens are done without tasting them.
- Pour the cooked greens into the colander to drain. Once the hot water has drained off, carefully put the hot greens into the ice water. Once the greens feel cool to the touch, drain them in a colander again. Drain for about 10 to 15 minutes so that they are quite dry. (At this point, the greens may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.)
- Put the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute the onions gently in the oil. Raise the heat and add the peppers, and then the garlic. Add the blanched greens and saute until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
CARAMELIZED ONION & GARLIC PASTA
This full-flavored recipe is the result of my mom's love of pasta and our love of cooking together. With a bit of pepper heat and smoky bacon, the entree is excellent alone or paired with grilled chicken. -Lacy Jo Matheson, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner
Time 55m
Yield 6 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add the onions, pepper flakes and salt; saute until onions are tender. Stir in garlic. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until onions are deep golden brown., Add the tomatoes, vinegar and 2 tablespoons oil to the skillet. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain pasta; toss with onion mixture., Drizzle with remaining olive oil. Sprinkle with bacon, cheese, and pepper; heat through. Garnish with basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 587 calories, Fat 25g fat (9g saturated fat), Cholesterol 39mg cholesterol, Sodium 496mg sodium, Carbohydrate 71g carbohydrate (12g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 19g protein.
SAUTEED GARLIC GREEN BEANS
We grow Italian Green Beans each year and I love to saute them in a pan with olive oil, onions and lots of garlic! Of course this recipe works with string beans or asparagus as well!
Provided by Holly Grier- Wallace
Categories Vegetable Appetizers
Time 40m
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- 1. Clean green beans and cut into 2-3 inch lengths. Chop onion and garlic and heat extra virgin olive oil (or vegetable oil if you don't have any) in a large skillet on medium heat. Place garlic and onion in pan and saute for a minute or two, just until they begin to turn translucent (I add some salt and pepper to the onions & garlic to season them also).
- 2. Add the green beans to the pan, sprinkle some balsamic vinegar or Garlic Red Wine Vinegar on top, season to taste with sea salt and coarse ground pepper and toss to coat well.
- 3. Cover with a lid, turn down heat to medium/low and continue to simmer for about 20-25 minutes, tossing occasionally to cook evenly.
- 4. The green beans are done when they are tender. Top with dots of butter, toss and they are ready to serve. These are delicious when served alone as an appetizer or with just about anything else as a side dish!
SAUTEED ONIONS AND PEPPERS
Steps:
- Cut the onions in half, and then slice them into 1/8-inch-thick half-rounds. (You will have about 10 cups of onions.)
- Heat the olive oil in a large saute pan over medium heat. Add the onions and saute for 15 to 20 minutes. Add the peppers, garlic, vinegar, tomato puree, pepper flakes, salt and pepper and continue cooking an additional 10 minutes.
SAUTéED SPICY DANDELION GREENS AND ONIONS
Provided by Gina Marie Miraglia Eriquez
Categories Side Sauté Easter Spring Vegetarian Pescatarian Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
Yield Makes 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Cook greens in 2 batches in an 8-quart pot of well-salted boiling water, uncovered, until ribs are tender, about 10 minutes per batch. Scoop out each batch of greens as cooked with a skimmer or slotted spoon into a colander, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Drain well, gently pressing out excess water, and transfer to a bowl.
- Heat oil and butter in cleaned pot over medium heat until foam subsides, then cook onions with garlic, cherry pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, covered, stirring occasionally, until pale golden, about 8 minutes. Add greens and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until onions are tender, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer dandelion green mixture with a slotted spoon to a serving bowl and drizzle with additional oil.
Tips:
- Choose a variety of greens: This recipe works well with a variety of greens, such as kale, collard greens, mustard greens, and spinach. You can also use a mix of greens.
- Wash the greens thoroughly: Be sure to wash the greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
- Chop the greens coarsely: Chop the greens coarsely so that they are easy to eat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until they are softened: This will help to bring out their flavor.
- Add the greens and cook until they are wilted: Cook the greens until they are wilted but still have a bit of crunch.
- Season the greens with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes: Season the greens to taste with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Serve the greens immediately: Serve the greens immediately while they are still hot.
Conclusion:
Italian greens with sautéed onions and garlic is a simple but delicious dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. It is also a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. This recipe is a great starting point, but you can feel free to experiment with different types of greens and seasonings to create your own unique dish.
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