This vibrant green shakshuka is packed with nutrient-rich vegetables, fresh herbs, and healthy fats. With a combination of leafy greens, herbs, and eggs, it's a satisfying, wholesome dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Add a creamy avocado for an extra boost of heart-healthy fats. Best of all, with all the greens, one serving contains around 600mg of potassium, which is great at stabilizing blood pressure!
Cooking time: 30 minutes.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 leek, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup leafy greens (choose from kale, spinach, or a mix)
- 1 cup your favorite fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, cilantro, basil, thyme, or a combination)
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 4-6 large eggs
- Crumbled fat-free feta cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 fresh avocado, sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Whole-grain pita or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the Leek and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and cook for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add the Greens and Herbs
Stir in the leafy greens (kale, spinach, or a combination). Cook for 3-5 minutes until wilted. Add the chopped herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil, etc.) and green chilies (if using). Stir everything together for another 2 minutes. - Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the cumin and coriander, stirring well to combine. Add the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes are softened and the flavors meld together. - Add the Eggs
Using a spoon, create small wells in the vegetable and tomato mixture. Crack the eggs into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny (or longer for firmer yolks, if desired). - Garnish and Serve
Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, sprinkle with crumbled fat-free feta (optional) and extra fresh herbs. Garnish with fresh avocado slices for a creamy, nutrient-dense addition. Serve immediately with whole-grain pita or crusty bread for dipping.
Health Benefits
- Leafy Greens: The kale and spinach in this shakshuka are rich in potassium and magnesium, both of which help lower blood pressure and support heart health. These greens are also loaded with fiber and antioxidants, which aid in reducing inflammation and supporting healthy digestion. By reducing sodium levels and improving vascular function, the potassium from greens plays a key role in blood pressure regulation.
- Balanced Blood Sugar: This meal provides a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber to help keep your blood sugar stable throughout the day. The healthy fats from olive oil and avocado, along with the protein from eggs, keep you feeling full and satisfied, preventing blood sugar spikes and crashes.
- Healthy Fats: The addition of avocado (optional) offers monounsaturated fats, which support cardiovascular health and help reduce the risk of heart disease. It also adds a creamy texture that balances out the dish’s flavors.
- Eggs: A great source of complete protein, eggs provide all nine essential amino acids, which help support muscle repair, immune function, and energy levels. Eggs also contain choline, which is essential for brain health and metabolism.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro not only brighten the dish but are packed with antioxidants. The cumin and coriander add flavor and have anti-inflammatory properties that support overall wellness.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Based on 4 servings (with fat-free feta and avocado)
Calories: 260 | Protein: 16g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Fiber: 6g | Sugars: 6g | Sodium: 330mg