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Skillet Greens with Cumin and Tomatoes

This vibrant vegan dish of sautéed greens with cumin and tomatoes is an excellent way to add more leafy vegetables to your weekly menu. Using a base of fragrant garlic and earthy ground cumin, the recipe works beautifully with anything from curly kale and cavolo nero to delicate spinach or peppery mustard greens. The addition of tinned tomatoes provides a subtle sweetness and acidity that balances the iron-rich flavours of the greens.

Quick to prepare and naturally healthy, these Mediterranean-inspired greens are a versatile accompaniment to roasted sweet potatoes, protein-rich pulses or even as part of a classic brunch. It is a brilliant resource for using up garden produce or seasonal shop-bought greens, offering a nutritious side that is as colourful as it is flavoursome.

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Ingredients for Skillet Greens with Cumin and Tomatoes

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 large bunch greens (such as spinach, mustard greens, kale, or broccoli rabe

  • about 450g ), thick stems removed, spinach left whole, other greens cut into 1-inch strips (about 2400ml packed)

  • 1 14 1/60g can diced tomatoes, drained

How to make Skillet Greens with Cumin and Tomatoes

Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cumin; stir 1 minute. Add greens by large handfuls; stir just until beginning to wilt before adding more, tossing until coated with oil. Cook until tender, 1 to 6 minutes. Add tomatoes and sauté until heated through, about 2 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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