hearts of palm recipe
The Best hearts of palm recipe
I love this recipe for all kinds of reasons. It’s not just about the health perks—hearts of palm are low in calories, high in fiber, and loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus some iron and magnesium. That means they’re great for keeping you full without the heavy, greasy stuff, and they’re a solid choice for anyone watching their weight or just trying to eat cleaner. But honestly, the best part is how it makes everyday meals feel special. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a little something for a family gathering, hearts of palm add that fresh, vibrant touch that makes plates look and taste better. My kids always ask for the salad with them in it, and honestly, I don’t blame them—it’s like they’re eating a little piece of the garden right there. And for occasions? Oh, it’s a no-brainer. They’re perfect for potlucks because they’re light enough to balance out heavier dishes, and they’re always a hit with people who are watching what they eat but still want to enjoy themselves. Plus, they’re way more interesting than just another boring green in a salad.
Grilled Hearts of Palm with Lemon-Herb Butter
A fresh and zesty dish featuring tender hearts of palm marinated in lemon juice and herbs, topped with a creamy garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a light yet flavorful meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 large hearts of palm, trimmed and rinsed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grilling surface. -
2
In a large bowl, combine hearts of palm, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for 10 minutes. -
3
While marinating, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, dill, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. -
4
Grill hearts of palm for 3–4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred. Transfer to a plate. -
5
Spoon the lemon-herb butter over the grilled hearts of palm and serve immediately.
🔧Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Small saucepan
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade.
- Substitute fresh herbs for dried if needed, but adjust quantities accordingly.
- If using pre-cooked hearts of palm, skip the grilling step and serve directly with the butter sauce.
Variations
- Add sliced avocado or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for a Mediterranean twist.
- Serve with a side of quinoa or a simple mixed greens salad.
Watch Video Of How Grilled Hearts of Palm with Lemon-Herb Butter Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Hearts of Palm with Lemon-Herb Butter
What is the best way to prepare hearts of palm before cooking?
Hearts of palm can be prepped in several ways depending on the recipe. First, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. If they are canned, drain and rinse them well to remove excess salt. For fresh hearts of palm, you may want to peel off the outer skin, but this can be done depending on the recipe—some recipes may not require peeling. Cut them into desired sizes (e.g., cubes, strips, or wedges) and ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
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Can hearts of palm be used in place of other vegetables in recipes, and if so, which ones?
Yes, hearts of palm can substitute for many vegetables in various dishes. They work well as a replacement for:
– Avocado in salads or sandwiches (for creaminess and texture).
– Cucumber in cold salads or as a low-carb alternative in place of cucumber slices.
– Zucchini or summer squash in stir-fries or pasta dishes.
– Bell peppers in veggie burgers or stuffed dishes.
– Mushrooms in meatless meatballs or pasta sauces (they hold their shape well).
Just adjust seasoning slightly since hearts of palm have a distinct flavor and texture—adding a pinch of salt or lemon juice can help balance any blandness.
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How do I know if hearts of palm are fresh or canned?
Fresh hearts of palm are typically sold in the produce section and may appear as long, pale green or light brown cylinders with a slightly fibrous texture. They should feel firm to the touch and have a mild, slightly sweet aroma. Canned hearts of palm are usually sold in a water or oil-based brine and come in a sealed tin or can. They are convenient for quick use but contain added salt and preservatives. If unsure, check the packaging for freshness indicators, such as “best by” dates or “fresh-cut” labels.
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What are some great dishes to make with hearts of palm?
Hearts of palm are incredibly versatile and work well in:
– Salads (e.g., tropical salad with avocado, lime, and cilantro, or a hearty Mediterranean salad with cucumber and feta).
– Stir-fries (add them to a quick Asian-inspired dish with peppers, soy sauce, and garlic).
– Tacos or wraps (sautéed with lime, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a refreshing twist).
– Pasta dishes (blended into creamy pasta sauces or used as a meat substitute in spaghetti aglio e olio).
– Grilled or roasted dishes (marinated in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for a smoky flavor).
– Sushi or sashimi bowls (raw, sliced, and paired with soy sauce, sesame, and wasabi for a unique texture).
– Stuffed vegetables (like bell peppers or zucchini boats filled with hearts of palm, rice, and spices).
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Why might hearts of palm taste bland or lack flavor, and how can I improve their taste?
Hearts of palm can sometimes taste bland due to their natural mild flavor, which is why they often need extra seasoning. To enhance their taste:
1. Marinate them – Soak them in a mixture of olive oil, citrus juice (lemon or lime), garlic, and herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Sauté or grill – Cooking them in a hot pan with oil, salt, and spices (like smoked paprika or cumin) helps deepen their flavor.
3. Add umami elements – Incorporate ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or a splash of fish sauce to boost savory notes.
4. Balance with acidity – A squeeze of lime or vinegar (like apple cider vinegar) cuts through any blandness and adds brightness.
5. Use in larger recipes – They work best in dishes where other bold flavors (like spices, herbs, or acidic ingredients) can complement them.
If using canned hearts of palm, rinse them well to reduce excess salt, then season generously afterward.
