Everyone knows that dark, leafy greens like kale and spinach are chock full of antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, and calcium. Many varieties of dark greens are still in season throughout autumn, and they’re perfect for sneaking extra nutrients into nearly any dish. This fall, go beyond the spinach salad — this week, we found ten tasty, fresh greens recipes loaded with flavor. We hope you enjoy these delicious, inventive, and healthy ways to use greens.
For those who don’t love kale’s unique texture, this homemade hummus is a perfect way to sneak in extra nutrients. Pro tip: it makes a kick-butt light lunch or afternoon snack when spread on toasted whole-wheat toast.
Spinach & Neufchatel Mini Quiches with Almond Crumble Crust via Around My Family Table
Photo: Wendy / Around My Family Table
These gluten-free savory bites are perfect for a protein-rich on-the-go breakfast or snack. With ground almonds, eggs, and just a bit of cheese, you’ll stay full of protein and healthy fat until the next meal.
Autumn Chickpea & Greens Stew via Everybody Likes Sandwiches
Photo: Jeannette Ordas / Everybody Loves Sandwiches
Feeling chilly? This veggie-filled stew will warm you up from the inside out. Flavored with tahini, red chili flakes, lemon, and cumin, this rich soup makes an interesting vegetarian dinner option.
This tasty green salad is basically health in a bowl. Kale, spinach, green apples, mint, and sliced almonds add nutrients, flavor, and crunch. Don’t forget the tangy mint-chive dressing with lemon juice!
Pasta with Kale Pesto, Shrimp, and Tomato via The Perfect Pantry
Photo: Lydia Walshin / The Perfect Pantry
A light and flavorful version of an Italian classic. Keep it extra healthy by choosing whole-wheat pasta and going easy on the Parm.
With just six ingredients (one of which is salt), this clean-eating spread is easy to whip up for any occasion. The Saint Patrick’s Day-worthy hue comes from five cups of spinach and an entire avocado.
This speedy, super-healthy recipe takes about 15 minutes to whip up. Plus, with chickpeas and a fried egg, it’s full of vegetarian protein.
Green Smoothie via Two Peas & Their Pod
Photo: Josh and Maria / Two Peas & Their Pod
Start the day off healthy with a fresh fruit, yogurt, and spinach smoothie. Don’t worry — the sweet fruit and creamy yogurt balance out the greens, so it doesn’t taste like you’re drinking a salad!
This light sammie is far from the greasy spinach artichoke dip served at most restaurants. It gets its rich, tasty flavor from Greek yogurt, not cream, and uses just a few slices of cheese. Serve it up on whole-wheat bread for extra fiber.
Spinach Muffins via Green Kitchen Stories
Photo: David and Luise / Green Kitchen Stories
Dark greens and baked goods sounds like a weird combination, but these savory muffins make a perfect snack. Pop one in the toaster oven for a speedy breakfast for mornings on the run.
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