Here’s a simple and kid-friendly recipe to incorporate leafy greens into meals:
Ingredients:
4 cups fresh spinach or kale (or a mix of both)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Pinch of salt and pepper (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)Instructions:
Prepare the greens: If you're using kale, remove the thick stems and roughly chop the leaves. Spinach can be used as is. Wash and dry the greens thoroughly.
Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not browned.
Add the greens: Add the spinach or kale to the skillet. The greens will seem bulky at first but will quickly wilt down as they cook. Stir continuously.
Season: Once the greens are wilted and tender (about 3-4 minutes for spinach or 5-7 minutes for kale), add a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Drizzle with lemon juice and stir well.
Finish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.Tips:
Variations: You can add a handful of chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for some crunch or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
Serving ideas: Serve the greens as a side dish, mix them into pasta or grain bowls, or even fold them into scrambled eggs for a nutrient boost!This quick and nutritious leafy greens recipe is an excellent way to add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your child’s meals while keeping it tasty and light.