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Hearty Red Russian Kale

Hearty Red Russian Kale: 1 Pot Comfort


  • Author: basmer1517
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A hearty and comforting one-pan meal featuring Red Russian kale and white beans, offering a rustic twist with Mediterranean and Southern influences. This recipe is easy to make, flavorful, and packed with nutrients.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch of Red Russian kale, roughly 6–8 cups chopped, stems removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 15-ounce can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Wash the Red Russian kale thoroughly and remove stems. Chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and smoked paprika. Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Add drained cannellini beans and stir to coat. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
  6. Add chopped Red Russian kale to the pan in batches, stirring between additions.
  7. Pour in vegetable broth, cover, and steam for 5–6 minutes until kale is softened.
  8. Remove lid, stir in apple cider vinegar and maple syrup. Cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes until glossy.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Red Russian kale has softer, more tender leaves than lacinato kale, cooking faster and offering a milder flavor.
  • Steaming kale briefly with broth keeps its color and nutrients intact.
  • Optional add-ins include cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, vegan feta, nutritional yeast, or pomegranate seeds.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving

Keywords: Hearty Red Russian Kale, Red Russian Kale, White Bean Skillet, one-pan meal, vegetarian recipe, kale recipe, comfort food