Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the crispy kale:
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 8 cups packed chopped curly kale (roughly 1 bunch)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the shrimp and sauce:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Juice from ½ lemon
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Medium-sized saucepan
Instructions
Prepare the crispy kale:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add the kale to the bacon grease, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the kale is slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer the kale to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread it in an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven until crispy, about 7-9 minutes.
Cook the shrimp:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in the same skillet you used for the bacon over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook until pink and opaque, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Make the lemon butter sauce:
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook until the liquid is reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes.
- Whisk in the butter and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Assemble the dish:
- Add the crispy kale and shrimp back to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine and heat through.
- If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
- Make it creamy: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of a kick.
- Serving suggestions: Serve with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or enjoy on its own as a low-carb meal.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Crispy Bacon Kale and Shrimp!
