Discover the rich flavor and nutritional power of collard greens with these 20 soulful recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this Southern staple. From hearty braises to saucy stir-fries, we’ve got you covered with a variety of collard greens recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re looking for a classic Southern-style dish or a creative twist on a traditional recipe, our collection of collard greens recipes has something for everyone. With flavors ranging from smoky and spicy to sweet and tangy, you’ll find inspiration for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of collard greens and explore the many ways you can prepare these nutritious greens. From comforting slow-cooked dishes to quick and easy sautés, we’ll share our favorite recipes that highlight the unique flavor and texture of collard greens. So grab your cooking pot and get ready to discover a new world of culinary delights!
Southern-Style Smoked Turkey Collard Greens
This classic Southern dish combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with the slightly bitter taste of collard greens, creating a hearty and comforting side dish. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday feasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup smoked turkey broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add collard greens, smoked turkey broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until greens are tender.
6. If using bacon, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Ham Hock Collard Greens
Rich and flavorful collard greens cooked low and slow with a savory ham hock, perfect for a hearty winter meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound collard greens, chopped
– 1 ham hock, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the collard greens, ham hock, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the greens are tender and the ham is falling apart.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Vegan Garlicky Coconut Milk Collard Greens
Experience the rich flavor of collard greens elevated by the creaminess of coconut milk and pungency of garlic in this plant-based delight. This recipe is a perfect blend of comfort food and healthy indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped collard greens and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the greens are tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Bacon and Onion Braised Collard Greens
A classic Southern dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound collard greens, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the chopped collard greens, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot.
6. Stir well to combine, then add back in the cooked bacon.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Apple Cider Vinegar Collard Greens
Transform collard greens into a sweet and tangy delight with this simple recipe that combines the natural bitterness of the greens with the sweetness of apple cider vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped collard greens, water, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creole-Style Collard Greens with Andouille Sausage
This hearty side dish combines the rich flavors of Andouille sausage, aromatic spices, and tender collard greens for a true Louisiana staple. A perfect accompaniment to your favorite Creole dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the collard greens, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Instant Pot Collard Greens with Smoked Neck Bones
Transform your favorite Southern comfort food into a tender and flavorful dish using the Instant Pot. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of collard greens with the rich, smoky flavor of neck bones.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds collard greens, cleaned and chopped
• 1 pound smoked neck bones
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped collard greens, smoked neck bones, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid.
6. Set the valve to “Sealing” and press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button, depending on your Instant Pot model.
7. Cook at high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetarian Collard Greens with Mushroom Umami
Elevate your greens game with this hearty and savory recipe that combines the nutritional powerhouse of collard greens with the rich, earthy flavor of mushrooms. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon maple syrup
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, soy sauce, and maple syrup to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cook the greens for 5-7 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Collard Greens with Scotch Bonnet Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this spicy and aromatic twist on traditional collard greens. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of collards with the pungent heat of scotch bonnet peppers, all tied together with a hint of jerk seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, Scotch bonnet peppers, and jerk seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the greens have wilted and the flavors have melded together, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Texas-Style BBQ Collard Greens with Brisket Drippings
A Southern twist on traditional collard greens, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Texas-style barbecue with the tender sweetness of brisket drippings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (Texas-style)
– 1/4 cup brisket drippings
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the BBQ sauce and brisket drippings, stirring to coat the greens evenly.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the greens are tender, about 30-40 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Collard Greens and Black-Eyed Pea Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Southern comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender collard greens and creamy black-eyed peas in a flavorful broth will warm your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the collard greens, black-eyed peas, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Garlic Butter Sautéed Collard Greens with Lemon Zest
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the earthy taste of collard greens with the brightness of lemon zest. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a healthy addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped collard greens and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to wilt.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice and add the grated zest to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Collard Greens with Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onions
A flavorful twist on traditional Southern collard greens, this recipe adds a creamy and sweet element with smoked gouda and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, wash collard greens and remove stems. Chop leaves into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add chopped collard greens and reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in caramelized onions, smoked Gouda cheese, salt, and pepper (and garlic if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional shredded smoked Gouda if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Low-Country Collard Greens with Shrimp and Grits
This hearty Southern dish combines the rich flavors of collard greens, succulent shrimp, and creamy grits. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add collard greens and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook grits according to package instructions. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked collard greens, shrimp mixture, and grits. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Miso-Glazed Collard Greens
Elevate your greens game with this sweet and spicy twist on a classic side dish. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the savory depth of miso paste and a kick of heat from gochujang.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add collard greens and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Pour glaze over the greens and stir to combine.
7. Transfer skillet or wok to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until caramelized and tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens Stuffed with Spiced Ground Turkey
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed greens, this recipe combines the earthy taste of collard greens with the warm spices and savory flavor of ground turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. When fully browned, drain excess fat.
5. Stuff each collard green leaf with about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture.
6. Place the stuffed greens in a baking dish and pour the chicken broth over them.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the creamy goodness of collard greens with the warm, crumbly texture of cornbread. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and collard greens in butter until tender.
3. Add chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
4. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
6. Layer the cooked collard greens mixture, followed by cornbread batter, and topped with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Collard Greens Pesto Pasta with Toasted Pecans
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the nutty taste of toasted pecans, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 bunch collard greens (about 2 cups chopped)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup toasted pecans
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor, blend collard greens, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
3. Add toasted pecans, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice to the processor. Blend until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta and collard green pesto sauce in a large bowl. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Collard Greens and Sweet Potato Hash
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of collard greens, all in one delicious hash.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. While sweet potatoes are roasting, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add onion and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
6. Add collard greens to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
7. Combine cooked sweet potatoes and collard greens mixture in a serving dish.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Collard Greens Wrapped Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of collard greens with the rich flavor of salmon, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. The addition of lemon-dill sauce takes it to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 bunch collard greens
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried dill weed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the collard greens into large leaves.
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Fold the leaf over the salmon and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
5. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and dill weed.
6. Place the wrapped salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with lemon-dill sauce.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of collard greens recipes! This collection of soul food delights offers 20 mouthwatering dishes that showcase the versatility and flavor of this Southern staple. From classic slow-cooked ham hock collard greens to vegan garlicky coconut milk collard greens, there’s something for everyone. Explore international twists like Jamaican jerk collard greens with Scotch bonnet peppers or low-country collard greens with shrimp and grits. Whether you’re a veggie lover or a meat-eater, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the health benefits of this nutritious green.