Panda Express Super Greens
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Nothing makes a weeknight meal easier than Panda Express Super Greens as a side dish. The broccoli, cabbage, and kale cook super fast and stay perfectly tender-crisp, and a little garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil give them that restaurant flavor you’re craving. Honestly, it’s the easiest takeout copycat you’ll ever make.
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I make these for quick lunches or dinners, Chinese takeout nights at home, and meal prep because they come together faster and are way cheaper than ordering out. They’re naturally low in calories, filling, and packed with flavor. Serve them alongside your favorite protein and rice for a complete meal that feels like takeout. They keep in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat well.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Panda Express Super Greens with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
You’ll have a healthily amazing vegetarian-friendly meal ready in just 20 minutes with fresh ingredients and minimal prep work.
Heat the Oil and Cook the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. You could also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point that handles the high heat better without burning, or regular or vegan butter for a richer flavor that coats the veggies beautifully.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. The garlic should smell amazing but not turn brown. You may also add ginger here, for a classic Chinese food restaurant taste and an extra layer of warmth.
Stir-Fry the Broccoli and Cabbage
Add the broccoli and cabbage. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Keep everything moving in the pan so it cooks evenly. I use a wooden spoon to carefully mix the vegetables without damaging them.
Steam the Kale
Add soy sauce, roughly chopped kale, and vegetable broth. If it turns too salty, an extra tablespoon or two of the broth or a pinch of sugar (optional) can help round out and balance the salt flavors.
Cover the pan with a lid and allow the veggies to steam for another 2 to 3 minutes, until tender but still vibrant. The broth creates just enough moisture to steam the kale without making everything soggy.
Finish With Sesame Oil
Drizzle with sesame oil and toss gently to combine using your silicone-tipped tongs. The sesame oil adds that classic Panda Express flavor you’re looking for.
Grab your chopsticks, serve warm as a side dish, and enjoy!
Pack the greens in an airtight container and an insulated carrier while they’re still warm if you’re heading to a potluck or bringing them to work. If you’re traveling longer, you can also transport them completely cooled and reheat them at your destination.
The greens hold up well and won’t get mushy during transport. Just give them a quick toss before serving to redistribute the sesame oil.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1½ cups green cabbage chopped
- 2 cups kale stems removed and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- ¼ cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Place a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil.1 tablespoon olive oil
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.3 cloves garlic
- Add the broccoli and cabbage. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they begin to soften.2 cups broccoli florets, 1½ cups green cabbage
- Stir in the chopped kale, soy sauce, and vegetable broth. Cover the pan and allow the vegetables to steam for another 2 to 3 minutes, until tender but still vibrant.2 cups kale, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, ¼ cup vegetable broth
- Drizzle with sesame oil and toss gently to combine. Serve warm as a side dish.1 teaspoon sesame oil
Notes
Nutrition
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers or are preparing in advance, store the greens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
For freezing, let them cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags for 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge. The vegetables may release a bit of liquid after sitting for days or weeks, so drain any excess before reheating.
What to Serve With Panda Express Super Greens
I serve them alongside fried rice, orange chicken, or Beijing beef for a complete Chinese takeout spread at home. They also pair beautifully with teriyaki salmon, grilled chicken, or tofu stir-fry if you want to keep the meal light and healthy.
Add some carrot sticks and bell peppers on the side for extra crunch and color, and you’ve got a balanced meal that feels restaurant-quality. The greens work as a base for grain bowls too. Add some quinoa or brown rice and top with your favorite protein.
Drizzle with extra soy sauce or peanut sauce, or sprinkle with sesame seeds for a nutty finish and added texture. They’re versatile enough to complement almost any Asian-inspired meal you’re making.
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