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Sautéed Lemon Maple Frisée

This elegant sautéed lemon and maple frisée offers a sophisticated twist on bitter salad greens. By quickly wilting the frisée in a savoury base of olive oil and anchovy paste, the natural sharpness of the leaves is beautifully balanced. A whisper of maple syrup and bright lemon juice adds depth, creating a complex flavour profile that works perfectly as a light, dairy-free side dish for roasted meats or grilled fish.

The dish is finished with a generous sprinkling of golden, citrus-infused breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. This recipe is an excellent way to enjoy frisée warm, moving beyond its traditional role in a cold salad. It is a quick and healthy addition to your midweek repertoire, providing a boost of greens with a professional, restaurant-style finish.

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Ingredients for Sautéed Lemon Maple Frisée

  • 45ml olive oil, divided

  • 120ml coarse fresh bread crumbs

  • 3/4 teaspoons grated lemon zest

  • 3/4 teaspoons anchovy paste

  • 1 (1-pound) head frisée, torn

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1/2 teaspoons pure maple syrup

How to make Sautéed Lemon Maple Frisée

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Cook bread crumbs until crisp and golden brown, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and stir in zest and a pinch of salt.

Wipe out skillet, then add anchovy paste and remaining 2 tablespoons oil and cook 15 seconds. Increase heat to medium-high and sauté half of frisée until slightly wilted, about 1 minute. Add remaining frisée and sauté until wilted, about 2 minutes more. Off heat, stir in juice, syrup, 1/8 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper.

Serve topped with bread crumbs.

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.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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