Sautéed Kale with Bacon
Sautéed Kale with Bacon is a savory side dish that pairs the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of kale with the smoky, salty richness of rendered bacon. Typically made with curly or lacinato kale, garlic, and sometimes a splash of vinegar or broth, it is a staple in Southern American cuisine and a popular way to make hearty greens more palatable.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fat, with the fat content coming primarily from the bacon. It is a nutrient-dense option, providing significant amounts of vitamins K, A, and C, along with iron and fiber, with a typical serving ranging from 150 to 250 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbs | 6 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin K | 680 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 550 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 45 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Folate | 30 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this dish is a modern variation of traditional Southern 'greens' recipes, which historically used smoked pork to flavor tough, nutrient-rich vegetables. Nutritionally, the fat from the bacon actually helps the body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins (like Vitamin K) found in the kale, making the greens more nutritionally bioavailable.
