5 Ways to Up Your Greens Game

By: Merritt Watts
creamed spinach

All Star Sides Spr1

Greens in A White Dish on A Green Tablecloth

©Food Stylist: Simon Andrews Prop Stylist: Marcus Hay

Food Stylist: Simon Andrews Prop Stylist: Marcus Hay

Greens that taste amazing? You better be-leaf it! These healthy, delicious sides will upgrade any main dish, assuming they don't steal the show first. Consider these takes on spinach, collards and kale the healthiest way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.

Creamed Spinach (above)

Okay, the term "creamed" is used lightly here, in every sense: Instead of actual cream, a blend of low-fat milk and evaporated milk makes for a rich spinach dish that's just as satisfying as the original. Enjoy it alongside a seared top round for a guilt-free take on a steakhouse fave.

Kale may get all the glory these days, but collard greens are just as nutrient-dense as those other scene-stealing leafy divas. Give collards a little love by braising them with onions and broth for a bit, then enjoy the meltingly tender result alongside baked chicken or pork tenderloin. (Kale better watch its back.)

collards

COLLARD_GREENS_017.tif

Food Stylist: Jamie Kimm

Photo by: Antonis Achilleos Prop Stylist: Marina Malchin 917 751 2855

Antonis Achilleos Prop Stylist: Marina Malchin 917 751 2855

But speaking of kale ... in a world of kale chips, kale smoothies and kale wraps, it takes a certain amount of bold conviction to serve something as simple as sauteed kale. This beyond-easy recipe makes a strong case for getting back to basics: It’s brightened up with a dash of vinegar at the very last minute, which changes everything. Try it alongside lean pork chops.

kale

Bobby_Flay_Fit_Sauteed_Kale

Bobby Flay's Sauteed Kale

Photo by: Matt Armendariz ©Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Matt Armendariz, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Just when you thought spinach couldn't get any better for you, it meets up with  fiber- and protein-rich chickpeas and -- voilà! -- a veritable superfood smorgasbord is born. Serve this alongside a simple roast chicken for a healthy dinner that's delicious, not dutiful.

spinach and chickpeas

CHICKPEAS_SPINACH_011.tif

Food stylist: Jamie Kim Prop Stylist: Marina Malchin

Photo by: Antonis Achilleos

Antonis Achilleos

If the last time you saw green beans was in your Thanksgiving casserole, it's time to rethink your side dish situation. Bring the beans back into rotation with this recipe: It doubles down on green goodness thanks to a guest appearance from kale, gets a savory boost from mushrooms and finishes strong with flavor-packed staples like red pepper flakes, fresh lemon and Parmesan cheese.

green beans and kale

Merritt Watts is a writer and eater in San Francisco, where strawberries are almost always in season.

Next Up

5 Fun Ways to Eat Chili on Game Day

Keep the whole team happy with these creative eats.

5 Ways to Have Even More Fun With Booze on Game Day

Pass these shots, punches and milkshakes (!) around to score big with your guests.

5 Delicious Ways to Use Paneer

Whether you buy it or make it at home, it’s great in everything from cakes to curries.

9 Ways to Zhuzh Up Hot Chocolate

Make those cozy cups extra special.

5 New Ways to Bake with Carrots

Start grating carrots for comforting desserts that take the whole carrot cake idea and run with it.

5 Ways to Do Turkey Burgers Right

Check out Food Network’s top five turkey burger recipes, each with a different tasty twist and all go-to main dishes for your weekend cookout spread.

The Best Ways to Use Up Leftover Chicken

Easy skillets, pastas, salads and more await.