Collard greens are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. Whether you’re in a rush or just looking for easy recipes to impress your family, these five quick and best ways to make collard greens will have you covered. Ready in just 15 minutes, these recipes combine convenience with flavor, ensuring you can enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Southern-Style Sautéed Collard Greens
Southern-style sautéed collard greens are a classic favorite that brings a touch of Southern comfort to your table. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and the onion is translucent. Then, add sliced collard greens to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy finish. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors. Ensure the collard greens are sliced thinly for even cooking and adjust the apple cider vinegar to your taste for a tangier kick.
Asian-Inspired Stir-Fried Collard Greens
For a quick and flavorful twist, try Asian-inspired stir-fried collard greens. Heat sesame oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying until aromatic. Toss in shredded collard greens, coating them in the fragrant oil and aromatics. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar, cooking until the greens are tender, about 5 minutes. Serve immediately as a tasty side dish. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles, and for added texture, sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts before serving.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Collard Greens
If you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy, try making creamy garlic Parmesan collard greens. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sautéing until golden brown. Add chopped collard greens and cook until wilted. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper, then serve. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer flavor, and stir continuously to prevent the cream from curdling. This dish is perfect for those who love a creamy, cheesy flavor with their greens.
Spicy Collard Greens with Bacon
Spicy collard greens with bacon add a smoky, savory flavor to your meal. Start by cooking chopped bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté sliced onion and minced garlic in the bacon fat until softened. Add sliced collard greens and red pepper flakes, cooking until the greens are wilted and tender. Stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and serve. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. The bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor that complements the spice perfectly.
Quick Collard Greens Salad
For a fresh and vibrant option, try a quick collard greens salad. Thinly slice collard greens and toss with a zesty vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey. Add chopped tomatoes, sliced red onions, and crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey to create the vinaigrette. In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced collard greens, chopped tomato, and thinly sliced red onion. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving. This salad is perfect for a light, refreshing meal.
