Sautéed Purslane

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Purslane is often called a “super green” because it’s high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. Sautéing it lightly keeps its tender texture and vibrant color while adding a savory, garlicky flavor. This dish is naturally low in calories, vegan, and gluten-free, making it an ideal option for healthy weeknight dinners or a quick side for lunch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 ounces purslane, washed
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
• ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt, optional, to taste
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the purslane and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, or until wilted but still vibrant green.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately as a side dish or light salad component.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra texture.
• Include a pinch of chili flakes for a mild heat.
• Mix with sautéed onions or bell peppers for additional flavor and color.
• Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

Sautéed purslane is best served fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat for 1–2 minutes; avoid high heat, which can make the leaves mushy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen purslane?

Fresh purslane is preferred for best texture, but frozen can be used. Thaw and drain excess water before sautéing.

Can I substitute another leafy green?

Yes, spinach, watercress, or Swiss chard can be used as a substitute, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this dish vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

How can I add more flavor without soy sauce?

Try a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, or a splash of miso paste.

Can I make a larger batch for meal prep?

Yes, but purslane is best fresh; for meal prep, add it to cooked grains or proteins just before serving to maintain its texture.

Conclusion

Sautéed Purslane is a vibrant, quick, and nutritious dish that adds color and flavor to any meal. With minimal ingredients and fuss, it’s a perfect way to enjoy this underrated super green. Healthy, light, and delicious, it’s a must-try side for anyone looking to elevate simple greens into something special.

Sautéed Purslane

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Sautéed Purslane is a quick, flavorful side dish that highlights the fresh, slightly tangy taste of this nutrient-packed green. With garlic, olive oil, and a touch of soy sauce, it comes together in minutes, making it a perfect light accompaniment for any meal. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie, it’s a healthy way to enjoy leafy greens.

• Author: Julia
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: International

Ingredients

4 ounces purslane, washed

1–2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce

⅛ teaspoon kosher salt, optional, to taste

⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add purslane and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until wilted but still vibrant green.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately as a side dish or light salad component.

Notes

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra texture.

Include a pinch of chili flakes for mild heat.

Mix with sautéed onions or bell peppers for more flavor and color.

Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 45
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg