Description
2 cups bok choy, chopped
2 cups spinach, washed and chopped
1 cup kale, stems removed and chopped
2 tbsp sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame seeds, toasted
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Add the bok choy, spinach, and kale to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the greens are tender but still vibrant.
Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the flavors are well combined.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Kcal: 90 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect stir-fried greens every time.
- Prep All Ingredients: Thoroughly wash and chop the bok choy, spinach, and kale. Mince the garlic and chop the green onions. Having everything ready is crucial for a quick stir-fry.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: In a dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the sesame seeds for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside immediately to prevent burning.
- Heat the Oil: Place your large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sesame oil and allow it to heat for about 30 seconds.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes just until fragrant. Do not let it brown, as it will turn bitter.
- Cook the Greens: Increase heat to medium-high. Add the tougher bok choy and kale first. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes before adding the more delicate spinach. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until all greens are wilted but still bright in color.
- Season and Finish: Pour in the soy sauce and rice vinegar. Add red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes to coat evenly and allow the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Immediately garnish with the toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with numerous mains. For a complete meal, serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice and baked tofu or grilled salmon. It also makes an excellent filling for lettuce wraps or a nutritious topping for a grain bowl with quinoa and a soft-boiled egg.
How-to Summary
Quickly stir-fry chopped bok choy, spinach, and kale in fragrant sesame oil and garlic. Finish with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a garnish of toasted sesame seeds and green onions for a healthy, 15-minute side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other greens? Absolutely. Swiss chard, collard greens, or napa cabbage are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time slightly based on their toughness.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve texture; microwaving will make the greens soggy.
Is this recipe vegan? Yes, as written. Ensure your soy sauce or tamari is a certified vegan/gluten-free brand if needed.
Can I make it less salty? To reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, or substitute half the amount with water or vegetable broth.
My greens turned out watery. What happened? This is often caused by overcrowding the pan, which steams rather than fries the greens. Cook in batches if your skillet is small, and ensure the heat is sufficiently high.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter. Cook it only until fragrant over medium heat.
- Overcooking the Greens: Cook just until wilted to maintain vibrant color, texture, and nutrients. They will continue to soften slightly off the heat.
- Adding All Greens at Once: Add sturdier greens (kale, bok choy stems) first, then delicate ones (spinach) later for even cooking.
- Using Cold Oil: Ensure the oil is properly heated before adding garlic to infuse its flavor and prevent greasiness.
Conclusion
This simple stir-fried greens recipe is a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor, proving that healthy eating can be both quick and delicious. With its flexible ingredients and straightforward technique, it’s an ideal side dish for busy weeknights. Mastering this fundamental stir-fry method opens the door to countless variations using your favorite seasonal vegetables.
