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Sautéed Greens with Fried Eggs Recipe


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4.2 from 23 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant and wholesome recipe features sautéed mixed greens cooked with garlic and onion, paired with perfectly fried eggs. A simple, nutritious dish ready in just 15 minutes, ideal for a quick breakfast or light meal. Optional additions like red pepper flakes add a spicy kick, while fresh lemon juice and herbs provide a bright finish.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Sautéed Greens

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, kale, or collard greens), roughly chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For the Fried Eggs

  • 4 large eggs (or more, depending on servings)
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar (optional, for the eggs)

For Garnish

  • Fresh lemon juice (optional)
  • Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Greens: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion, if using, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
  3. Cook the Greens: Add the roughly chopped mixed greens to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are wilted and tender. If the greens begin to stick, add a splash of water to help them cook down evenly.
  4. Season with Spice: Mix in red pepper flakes for a subtle heat if desired, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Prepare Eggs: While the greens are cooking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for frying the eggs.
  6. Fry Eggs: Crack eggs into the hot skillet, spacing them apart. Fry to your preference: sunny side up takes about 2-3 minutes until whites are set but yolks remain runny. To speed cooking of the whites and achieve a tidy result, cover the pan for the last minute.
  7. Optional Egg Tip: Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to the skillet while frying to help set the egg whites and keep their shape neat.
  8. Assemble the Plate: Divide the sautéed greens evenly onto serving plates. Top each with a hot fried egg. Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and freshly chopped herbs, like parsley or chives, if using.
  9. Serve: Serve immediately as a simple, nutritious meal. Optionally pair with toasted bread or avocado for added flavor and texture.

Notes

  • The addition of onion and red pepper flakes is optional but adds flavor and depth to the dish.
  • Use a non-stick skillet for best results frying eggs to prevent sticking.
  • Adding vinegar when frying eggs helps the whites firm up neatly.
  • Mixed greens can be substituted or combined with any leafy greens you prefer.
  • For a vegan alternative, replace fried eggs with sautéed tofu or avocado slices.
  • This dish pairs well with toasted bread or a side of ripe avocado for more substance.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American