Boiled Greens
Boiled Greens are a quintessential Mediterranean side dish—simple, vibrant, and deeply nourishing. Tender leafy greens are gently blanched and dressed with olive oil and lemon, letting their natural flavor shine with humble elegance.
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg chicory or any greens of your choice
- Salt
- Olive oil for serving
Preparation
- Clean the Greens
- Choose any greens you like (in this recipe, we use 1.5 kg of chicory).
- Clean them thoroughly and soak them in a basin of water with a splash of vinegar for 5 minutes. The vinegar helps remove any tiny insects that may be on the greens.
- Rinse the Greens
- Wash the greens thoroughly in several changes of water until they are free from dirt and sand.
- Boil the Greens
- Fill a pot halfway with water and bring it to a boil. Add the greens and use a fork to gently press them down so they are submerged.
- Watch carefully to ensure the water doesn’t boil over. Cook until the greens reach your desired level of tenderness.
- Serve
- When ready, use a fork to transfer the greens to a plate. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Pairing Suggestions
- Serve as is, or pair with fried or oven-baked potatoes, or with fish such as anchovies or sardines.
A Simple Elixir
To prepare Boiled Greens, sturdy leafy vegetables (such as spinach, chard, dandelion, or kale) are thoroughly washed, soaked, and then boiled until just tender. They’re then drained and dressed generously with high-quality olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to taste—creating a clean and revitalizing flavor.
Why It’s Irresistible
This dish honors the purity of greens, balancing their earthy depth with bright citrus freshness and olive oil richness. It’s both effortless and comforting, offering a soulful green embrace in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Boiled Greens warm or at room temperature as a wholesome side—or elevate with crumbled feta, a dash of garlic, or grilled onions. Pair it with grilled meats, fish, or a crisp winter salad for a satisfying Mediterranean meal.
Simple, Nutritious, and Full of Flavor
Boiled greens are a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, celebrating the purity and natural taste of fresh produce. Whether served as a side or a light main dish, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the earthy goodness of greens. Healthy, hearty, and always satisfying!
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