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HORTA — HEALTHY STEAMED GREENS FROM GREECE

By Delicious Recipes!Posted on
HORTA — HEALTHY STEAMED GREENS FROM GREECE

HORTA — HEALTHY STEAMED GREENS FROM GREECE

Horta is a traditional Greek method of cooking leafy greens gently in their own juices, preserving water-soluble vitamins. Serving with lemon enhances iron absorption from the greens, making it both nutritious and delicious.

About Horta

In Kefalonia, grilled vegetables were uncommon, but steamed greens and boiled vegetables were popular healthy sides. While boiled zucchini didn’t appeal much, steamed mixed greens were a favorite, perfectly complementing grilled fish.

Traditional recipes use any seasonal leafy greens, including dandelion and fennel leaves. Here, beet greens and young spinach are used. The dish is finished with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice.

Ingredients

  • 350 g mixed greens (150 g beet greens + 200 g young spinach)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 lemon (for juice and garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a wide pot, add just enough water to cover the bottom evenly. Bring to a boil.
  2. Add beet greens first, cover, and steam for 2 minutes since they require longer cooking.
  3. Gradually add spinach handfuls, stirring gently after each addition and covering the pot again until greens wilt.
  4. After all greens are added, lift the lid only when you see a good amount of liquid gathered at the bottom. Continue cooking uncovered to reduce the liquid slightly.
  5. Season with sea salt and black pepper.
  6. Transfer the greens along with their juice into a bowl, cover, and let cool completely.
  7. When serving, drizzle olive oil over the greens and squeeze 1/4 lemon juice on top. Sprinkle a little more sea salt.
  8. Serve with fresh lemon slices and crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juice.

💡 Tips

  • Use fresh, seasonal greens for best flavor and nutrition.
  • Do not overcook to preserve color and nutrients.
  • Adjust lemon and olive oil quantities to taste.

📝 Final Thoughts

Horta is a simple, wholesome dish showcasing the beauty of seasonal greens. It’s a light, vibrant accompaniment that pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or meat, embodying the essence of Mediterranean healthy eating.