Black-eyed Peas with Garlic and Kale 🥬

Overview:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Description:

Looking for a flavorful, healthy dish that’s perfect for New Year’s Day or any time you want a comforting meal? Look no further! This Black-eyed Peas with Garlic and Kale recipe is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s bursting with robust flavors. Unlike traditional recipes that often include ham, this vegetarian version relies on the vibrant tastes of kale, garlic, and vinegar to create a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course. And the best part? It’s so easy to make, you won’t even need to worry about precise measurements!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 bunches of kale
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 sweet onion, diced
• 1 clove fresh garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 can (15 ounces) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 143.4
• Fat: 3.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 288.8mg
• Carbohydrates: 23.4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 0.3g
• Protein: 7.7g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Kale:

   • Pull the kale leaves from the tough stems.
   • Discard the stems and tear or chop the leaves into small (1 inch pieces).

2. Cook the Kale:

   • In a large pot, bring about 2 inches of water to a boil.
   • Add the kale to the pot.
   • Cover and cook until the leaves are tender, stirring occasionally (about 15-20 minutes).
   • Drain the kale, reserving the stock for soup if desired.

3. Prepare the Dish:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until fragrant.
   • Add the drained and rinsed black-eyed peas to the skillet, along with the red pepper flakes.
   • Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are heated through and well combined with the onion and garlic mixture.

4. Combine the Ingredients:

   • Add the cooked kale to the skillet with the black-eyed peas.
   • Stir to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together over low heat.

5. Finish and Serve:

   • Just before serving, drizzle the cider vinegar over the dish and stir to incorporate.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
   • Serve hot as a nutritious and flavorful side dish or enjoy it as a light and satisfying main course.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Vegan: Simply omit the olive oil or use a plant-based alternative, and this dish becomes vegan-friendly.
• Add Some Heat: If you like your dishes spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Customize the Texture: Prefer your kale more tender? Cook it for a few extra minutes. Like it with a bit of crunch? Reduce the cooking time slightly.
• Serve with Grains: This dish pairs beautifully with cooked quinoa, brown rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a double batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a nourishing meal, this Black-eyed Peas with Garlic and Kale recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Give it a try and discover why it’s become a staple in so many kitchens! 🌟