Get ready to supercharge your meals with the nutritional powerhouse duo of spinach and kale! These two leafy greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help boost your energy levels, support healthy digestion, and even reduce inflammation in the body. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious recipes that feature spinach and kale as the main ingredients. From hearty breakfast dishes to satisfying lunch and dinner options, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with these two versatile greens.
Creamy Spinach and Kale Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of cream cheese with the earthiness of spinach and kale. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup fresh kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, kale, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-kale mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and stuffing is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Sautéed Spinach and Kale
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of spinach and kale with the rich flavor of garlic butter, creating a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the kale leaves and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until both greens are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Kale Quiche with Feta Cheese
A savory quiche perfect for a breakfast or brunch option, packed with nutrients from spinach and kale, and enhanced by the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
– 1 cup chopped curly kale
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the spinach and kale until wilted. Let cool.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange the cooled spinach-kale mixture in the pie crust.
6. Sprinkle the feta and cheddar cheese over the greens.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Kale and Spinach Green Smoothie
Kick-start your day with a nutrient-packed green smoothie that combines the earthy flavors of kale and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 cup fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the kale and spinach to a blender and blend until well combined.
2. Add the sliced banana, frozen pineapple, almond milk, and chia seeds. Blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey if needed.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on blending time)
Spinach and Kale Pesto Pasta
Experience the perfect blend of creamy and nutritious with this spinach and kale pesto pasta recipe. This dish is a great way to add some greens to your meal routine!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine spinach, kale, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic (if using). Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pesto mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Spinach and Kale Falafel
This recipe takes the traditional falafel to new heights by incorporating nutritious spinach and kale, resulting in a crispy and flavorful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spinach
– 1/2 cup chopped kale
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine cooked spinach, chopped kale, chickpeas, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties or balls.
5. Place falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Kale Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the nutritional powerhouses of spinach and kale, creating a deliciously healthy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup chopped curly kale
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, kale, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-kale mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kale and Spinach Lentil Soup
A hearty and nutritious soup that combines the earthy flavors of lentils, kale, and spinach. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and spinach leaves. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the greens have wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale or spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Kale Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast that’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants. This Spinach and Kale Breakfast Scramble is a delicious and healthy way to kick-start your morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups spinach leaves
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes more.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until eggs are cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spinach and Kale Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic stuffed shells, featuring the nutritious duo of spinach and kale.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add spinach and kale; cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Let cool.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked greens, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the green mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic Spinach and Kale Dip
This creamy dip combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic, wilted spinach, and tender kale with a hint of lemon and spices. Perfect for veggie lovers and snack enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach, stems removed
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast garlic by placing cloves on a piece of foil, drizzling with olive oil, and folding foil to create a packet. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until soft.
3. In a large skillet, sauté spinach and kale in olive oil over medium heat until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine roasted garlic, cooked greens, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spinach and Kale Veggie Wraps
Get ready to wrap up a healthy and delicious meal with this easy recipe! Spinach and kale come together in harmony with whole wheat wraps, creamy hummus, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of whole wheat tortilla wraps
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss spinach and kale with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. Warm tortilla wraps according to package instructions.
4. Spread 2 tbsp of hummus on each wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with roasted spinach-kale mixture, red bell pepper slices, and cucumber slices.
6. Roll up tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Kale Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Nourish your body with these flavorful and nutritious sweet potatoes stuffed with a delicious spinach and kale mixture. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or 1/4 cup chopped walnuts for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add spinach and kale to the skillet, cooking until wilted.
5. Slice open the sweet potatoes and fill with the spinach-kale mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, top with feta cheese or chopped walnuts.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for sweet potatoes + 5-10 minutes for filling preparation
Kale and Spinach Coconut Curry
This vibrant curry combines the nutritional benefits of kale and spinach with the creamy richness of coconut milk, making it a perfect vegetarian option for any meal. This flavorful dish is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or ghee for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat oil/ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add kale and spinach; cook until wilted (5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in curry powder; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low; let curry simmer while preparing other dishes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Kale Gnocchi with Brown Butter
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of spinach and kale with the richness of brown butter, creating a unique and delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spinach and kale mixture (see note)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– Brown butter (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach and kale mixture, flour, semolina flour, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the egg, kneading until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
4. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Brown Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Toss with cooked gnocchi and serve.
Cooking Time:
– Gnocchi: 2-3 minutes
– Brown Butter: 5-7 minutes
Spinach and Kale Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of bell peppers with the nutritional powerhouse of spinach and kale. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup chopped fresh kale leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine spinach, kale, onion, garlic, brown rice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the spinach-kale mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Kale Avocado Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the earthy flavors of spinach and kale. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach and kale leaves.
2. Arrange avocado slices on top of the greens.
3. Add sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in minutes.
Spinach and Kale White Bean Stew
This hearty stew combines the nutty flavors of white beans with the earthy goodness of spinach and kale, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped fresh kale
– 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the cannellini beans, kale, spinach, vegetable broth, and thyme.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens have wilted.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Kale Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti
Elevate your pasta game with this deliciously healthy take on the classic manicotti recipe. This dish combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the nutritional powerhouse of spinach and kale, all wrapped up in a tender tube-shaped pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 manicotti shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup fresh kale leaves, stems removed and finely chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, kale, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked manicotti shell with the spinach-kale mixture.
5. Place stuffed manicotti in a baking dish, seam-side down. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Kale Shakshuka
A flavorful twist on the classic North African dish, this Spinach and Kale Shakshuka combines the nutty sweetness of greens with the savory richness of eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the spinach and kale, stirring constantly until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Make 4 wells in the vegetable mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Cook until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny, about 8-10 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of delicious and healthy recipes featuring spinach and kale! This article shares 20 mouth-watering dishes that showcase the versatility of these two superfood greens. From savory main courses like Creamy Spinach and Kale Stuffed Chicken, to quick and easy snacks like Spinach and Kale Veggie Wraps, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find comforting soups, satisfying salads, and even sweet treats. Discover the perfect way to incorporate more spinach and kale into your diet with these tasty recipes.
