Simple Garlic Amaranth Sauté
A vibrant, quick, and nutritious side dish featuring tender amaranth leaves sautéed with fragrant garlic and a bright squeeze of lemon. Perfect for a busy weeknight.
For 3 servings
Thoroughly wash the large bunch of amaranth leaves under cold running water. Shake off excess water, then roughly chop the leaves, discarding any tough or woody stems. It's okay if they retain a little moisture.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the thinly sliced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to burn it.
Immediately add the chopped amaranth leaves to the skillet. The pan will seem very full, but the leaves will quickly wilt down.
Sauté the amaranth leaves for 2-3 minutes, tossing frequently with tongs, until they are completely wilted, vibrant green, and tender.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and toss everything together one last time.
Serve immediately as a healthy and flavorful side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcrowd: If you have a very large bunch, sauté in two batches to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming, which can make the greens watery.
- 2Garlic Care: Watch the garlic closely; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish. Aim for fragrant and lightly golden.
- 3Freshness is Key: Use freshly picked, vibrant amaranth leaves for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any yellowed or bruised leaves.
- 4Seasoning Timing: Add salt at the end, as the leaves reduce significantly in volume, and you might over-salt if added too early.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a finely chopped green chili along with the garlic for a subtle heat.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts just before serving for added texture and flavor.
Umami BoostUmami Boost
A dash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add depth and a savory, umami flavor to the greens.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Amaranth leaves are packed with essential vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and various minerals like iron and calcium, supporting overall health.
High in Antioxidants
Contains powerful antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Digestive Health
The significant dietary fiber content in amaranth aids in healthy digestion, promotes bowel regularity, and can help prevent constipation.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh is best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen amaranth. Thaw them completely and squeeze out excess water before sautéing, as they will release more liquid during cooking.
