19 Healthy Southern Collard Greens Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 12, 2024
Southern collard greens are a staple in many traditional southern dishes, and for good reason. Not only are they packed with nutrients and flavor, but they are also incredibly easy to prepare. In this article, we'll be sharing a delicious and healthy southern collard greens recipe that will have your taste buds dancing and your body thanking you. So grab your apron and let's get cooking!
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt
If you're looking for a healthier take on traditional Southern collard greens, then you have to try Mary's recipe. She uses fresh collard greens, chicken broth, and a variety of aromatic spices to create a dish that is both delicious and nutritious. And the best part? This recipe is also gluten-free and low-carb, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.
For a more classic approach to collard greens, this recipe is a must-try. With smoked ham hock, bacon, and apple cider vinegar, these collard greens are packed with flavor. The smoky and salty ingredients add a depth of flavor that will have you going back for seconds.
For those who prefer a more traditional recipe, this classic version of collard greens is a perfect choice. It uses ham hock for a rich and meaty flavor, and apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick. Serve it with some cornbread for the ultimate Southern meal.
This recipe takes a slightly different approach by adding red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. The heat from the flakes balances out the smokiness from the ham hock, creating a delicious and unique flavor profile. Serve it alongside some barbecue for a Southern feast.
5of 15
Vegan Southern-Style Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Virgin Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic Cloves
For our vegan friends, we haven't forgotten about you! This recipe uses vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. It's a great option for those looking for a plant-based version of this classic dish.
With bacon grease and chicken broth, this recipe stays true to the traditional Southern flavor profile. But the secret ingredient? A splash of bourbon for a rich and sweet twist. Serve it as a side dish or add it to your beer can chicken for a tasty combination.
7of 15
Southern Style Vegetarian Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Garlic, Chopped Onion, Chili Powder
If you're looking for a vegetarian version of this classic dish, then this recipe is for you. It uses vegetable broth and liquid smoke for a savory and smoky flavor. And for some added crunch, this recipe also includes crushed red pepper flakes.
8of 15
Southern Style Pressure Cooker Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Turkey Leg, Onion, Garlic, Chicken Broth, Collard
If you're short on time, this recipe is a lifesaver. Instead of cooking collard greens on the stove for hours, this recipe uses a pressure cooker to speed up the process. The result? Tender and flavorful collard greens in a fraction of the time.
9of 15
Southern Smoked Turkey Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Chicken Broth, Turkey Parts, Yellow
This recipe is a twist on the classic, using smoked turkey instead of ham hock. The smokiness from the turkey adds a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the collard greens. And for some added heat, this recipe also includes hot sauce for a little kick.
10of 15
Southern Collard Greens (Instant Pot)
Main Ingredients: Turkey Wing, Water, Collard Greens, Large Onion
For another quick and easy option, this recipe uses an Instant Pot to cook the collard greens. With bacon and chicken broth, this recipe stays true to the traditional Southern flavors. And the best part? It only takes 30 minutes to make.
11of 15
Healthy Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic Cloves, Turkey Wings
For a healthier take on this classic dish, this recipe uses olive oil instead of bacon grease, and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The result? A lighter, yet still flavorful dish that is perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
If you're new to cooking collard greens, this recipe is a great place to start. With bacon, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce, this recipe is simple yet still packed with flavor. Serve it as a side dish or incorporate it into your beer can chicken recipe for a tasty combination.
13of 15
Southern Style Collard Greens - Soul Food
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Turkey Necks, Yellow Onion, Water
For a true taste of Southern soul food, this recipe is a must-try. With pork neck bones and hot sauce, this dish is full of flavor and heat. And for some added nutrition, this recipe also includes black-eyed peas for a hearty and filling dish.
14of 15
Smoky Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Crushed Red Chile Flakes, Garlic, Collard
This recipe takes a unique approach by adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without the use of meat. It also includes a touch of sweetness from honey, balancing out the flavors perfectly. Serve it as a side dish or add it to your beer can chicken for a delicious combination.
15of 15
Save the Stems! Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Turkey Wings, Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Collard Greens
Instead of discarding the stems of the collard greens, this recipe uses them to create a savory and nutritious dish. With garlic and onion, this recipe is flavorful and healthy. And the best part? You're not wasting any part of the collard greens.
The Health Benefits of Collard Greens
Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about the amazing health benefits of collard greens. These leafy greens are a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, calcium, and iron. They also contain powerful antioxidants that can help protect against chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Collard greens are also low in calories and high in water content, making them a great addition to any healthy diet.
What Makes This Recipe Healthy?
Our southern collard greens recipe focuses on using fresh, whole ingredients to create a nutritious and delicious dish. Instead of using fatty meats like bacon or ham hocks, we'll be using lean turkey bacon for a healthier alternative. We'll also be incorporating flavorful spices and herbs, such as garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes, to add depth and flavor without adding extra calories. And of course, the star of the show – the collard greens – will provide a hefty dose of vitamins and minerals.
How to Prepare Southern Collard Greens
To start, you'll need a large pot or Dutch oven. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, then add in diced onions, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for a few minutes until the onions are translucent. Next, add in your chopped collard greens and stir until they begin to wilt. Then, add in low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Finally, add in your turkey bacon and let everything simmer for about an hour until the greens are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Serving Suggestions
These healthy southern collard greens can be served as a side dish or as a main course. For a complete meal, serve them over brown rice or with a side of whole-wheat cornbread. You can also add some protein by topping them with grilled chicken or shrimp. And for an extra kick of flavor, drizzle some hot sauce or apple cider vinegar on top.
In Conclusion
This healthy southern collard greens recipe is the perfect way to incorporate more nutrient-dense and flavorful greens into your diet. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also a great way to add variety to your meals. So next time you're looking for a healthy and delicious side dish, give this recipe a try. Your body will thank you!
