This simple, rustic dish is both healthy and hearty. First, kale is braised with fragrant garlic, green onions and lemon juice, then protein-rich eggs are then nestled into the bed of kale, where they gently simmer to perfection. A finishing garnish of red pepper flakes adds the perfect amount of contrasting heat.

Spicy Simmered Eggs with Kale

2 Tbs. unsalted butter

4 green onions, white and light green portions, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 bunches kale, tough stems removed, leaves roughly chopped

1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1/2 tsp. salt, plus more, to taste

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more, to taste

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

4 eggs

Red pepper flakes, to taste

In a large fry pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the green onions and garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add half of the kale and sauté, stirring frequently until it begins to wilt, about 2 minutes. Stir in the remaining kale and repeat. Add the broth, the 1/2 tsp. salt and the 1/4 tsp. black pepper. Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the kale softens, about 6 minutes.

Using the back of a spoon, create a pocket for each egg in the kale. Crack 1 egg into each pocket. Reduce the heat to medium-low and season the eggs with salt and black pepper. Cover the pan and let the eggs cook until almost opaque, 4 to 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the eggs rest, covered, until done to your taste. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and serve immediately. Serves 4.