Low Sugar Sautéed Greens with Pine Nuts & Olive Oil
Leafy greens cooked in good olive oil with garlic and a squeeze of lemon are one of those side dishes that feel both effortless and impressive at the same time. Kale and Swiss chard bring different textures to the pan — the chard stems stay slightly toothsome while the leaves wilt down silky and tender alongside the heartier kale. Toasted pine nuts scattered over the top add a buttery crunch that makes every bite more interesting. A pinch of red pepper flakes keeps things lively without overwhelming the natural, earthy flavor of the greens. Every single ingredient here is naturally free of added sweeteners, so there's no label-reading required and no hidden sugars sneaking in through sauces or seasonings. The bright hit of lemon juice at the end ties everything together and makes the whole dish taste fresh and vibrant. This is the kind of vegetable side that converts skeptics — simple, clean, and genuinely delicious.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 bunch kale (about 8 oz), stems removed, leaves roughly torn
- 1 bunch swiss chard (about 8 oz), stems thinly sliced, leaves roughly torn
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- ¼ tsp sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- 1
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
- 2
Add 2 tbsp of the olive oil to the same skillet over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden at the edges, about 2 minutes. Watch closely, as the garlic can brown quickly.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!