16 Recipe For Southern-style Greens You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
Southern-style greens are a staple dish in the American South, known for its rich and savory flavors. This traditional recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish. The key to making the perfect batch of southern-style greens lies in the careful selection of ingredients and the slow cooking process. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making this beloved dish and give you tips on how to make it your own. So put on your apron and get ready to experience a taste of the South with our recipe for southern-style greens.
If you want to experience true Southern cooking, you have to try these delicious collard greens. They are a staple in Southern cuisine and are often served as a side dish to complement hearty meals such as fried chicken or BBQ ribs. With their rich flavor and tender texture, these collard greens are sure to become a family favorite.
This recipe stays true to the classic Southern style of cooking collard greens. The greens are slow-cooked with bacon and onion for a flavorful base, then simmered in a savory broth until they are tender and full of flavor. Serve with some cornbread on the side for a deliciously comforting meal.
3of 40
Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Butter, Bacon, Small Onion, Collard Greens, Garlic
If you want to add a little twist to your collard greens, try this recipe that incorporates bacon, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce for a tangy and spicy kick. These collard greens are perfect for those who like a little heat in their food and are a great addition to any BBQ or potluck gathering.
4of 40
Beet Greens
Main Ingredients: Beet Greens, Thick Cut Bacon, Chopped Onion, Large
Don't let those beet greens go to waste! This recipe shows you how to turn them into a delicious and nutritious side dish. Sautéed with garlic, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice, these beet greens are full of flavor and make a great accompaniment to any meal.
5of 40
Spicy Skillet Turnip Greens
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Turnip Greens, Water, Brown Sugar
This recipe takes turnip greens to a whole new level with the addition of spicy sausage, onion, and creole seasoning. The flavors of the sausage and seasoning infuse into the greens, making them incredibly flavorful and delicious. Serve with some cornbread for a hearty and satisfying meal.
6of 40
Ye'abesha Gomen (Ethiopian Collard Greens)
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Cooking Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
If you're looking to try something new and different, give this Ethiopian collard greens recipe a try. The greens are cooked with onion, garlic, and Berbere spice, a traditional Ethiopian spice blend that adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish. Serve with some injera (Ethiopian flatbread) for an authentic experience.
If you prefer a slightly bitter taste, then these Southern mustard greens are the perfect side dish for you. They are cooked with bacon, onion, and apple cider vinegar for a flavorful and tangy dish. These greens are also a great source of vitamins and antioxidants, making them not only delicious but also nutritious.
8of 40
Sauteed Beet Greens
Main Ingredients: Beet Greens, Water, Garlic, Lemon, Olive Oil, Butter
This simple and quick recipe is a great way to use up beet greens and turn them into a tasty side dish. Sautéed with garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and lemon juice, these beet greens are packed with flavor and make a great accompaniment to any meal. Plus, they are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
This recipe is a must-try for all collard green lovers. The greens are slow-cooked with ham hocks, onion, and apple cider vinegar until they are tender and full of flavor. Serve with some cornbread and enjoy a taste of the South.
10of 40
Mustard Greens
Main Ingredients: Onions, Garlic, Olive Oil, Mustard Greens, Chicken
Mustard greens are a popular ingredient in Southern cooking and for a good reason. They are packed with flavor and can be cooked in a variety of ways. This recipe shows you how to prepare them with bacon, onion, and Worcestershire sauce for a delicious and hearty side dish.
11of 40
Instant Pot Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Seasoned Salt, Crushed Red Pepper
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious plate of collard greens, this recipe is for you. With the help of an Instant Pot, these collard greens are cooked in chicken broth, onion, and smoked paprika in just a fraction of the time it would take to cook them on the stovetop. Plus, the pressure cooking method helps to lock in all the flavors, making these collard greens incredibly flavorful.
12of 40
Super Greens Green Juice
Main Ingredients: Broccoli, Celery Stalks, Parsley, Kale, Cucumber
If you're looking for a healthy and refreshing way to enjoy your greens, this green juice recipe is a must-try. It combines collard greens, kale, spinach, and lemon for a nutrient-packed drink that will give you an energy boost and help you meet your daily vegetable intake.
13of 40
Turnip Greens
Main Ingredients: Turnip Greens, Bacon Drippings, Chicken Bouillon
Turnip greens may not be as popular as collard greens, but they are just as tasty and nutritious. This recipe shows you how to cook them with bacon, onion, and white wine for a flavorful and slightly tangy side dish. Serve with some cornbread for a delicious Southern-style meal.
14of 40
Garlicky Vegan Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Large Onion, Garlic, Vegetable
For all the vegans out there, this recipe is for you. These collard greens are cooked with garlic, onion, and vegetable broth for a delicious and healthy side dish. The garlic adds a nice kick of flavor, while the vegetable broth keeps the greens moist and tender.
15of 40
Oven Baked Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Low
If you want to try a different way of cooking your collard greens, give this recipe a go. The greens are tossed in a spicy mustard-based sauce and baked in the oven until they are crispy and flavorful. This is a great alternative to the traditional slow-cooked collard greens and is perfect for those who like a little crunch in their food.
16of 40
Collard Greens Gratin
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Butter, Onion, Garlic, Collard
If you're looking for a dish that is both comforting and elegant, this collard greens gratin is the perfect choice. The greens are cooked with heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs until they are tender and creamy, then topped with more cheese and breadcrumbs and baked in the oven until golden and bubbly. Serve as a side dish for a special occasion or as a main dish with some crusty bread on the side.
17of 40
Oven-Baked Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Large Onion, Garlic, Low Sodium
This recipe takes collard greens to a whole new level by adding some smoked turkey to the mix. The greens are cooked with onion, garlic, and smoked turkey and then baked in the oven until they are tender and smoky. This dish is a great way to add some protein to your meal and is perfect for those who love a good BBQ flavor.
18of 40
Greens and Beans Casserole
Main Ingredients: Garlic Cloves, Fresh Thyme Sprigs, Coconut Milk
This hearty casserole is a great way to enjoy your greens and beans in one delicious dish. The collard greens, white beans, and crushed tomatoes are cooked together with some herbs and spices until they are tender and flavorful, then topped with some cheesy breadcrumbs and baked until golden and crispy. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.
19of 40
Reverse Marinade Carne Asada with Black Beans and...
Main Ingredients: Flank Steak, Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Black Beans, Green
If you're in the mood for some Mexican-inspired flavors, try this carne asada recipe that uses a reverse marinade technique to infuse the meat with flavor. The dish is served with a side of black beans and corn and avocado salsa for a delicious and well-rounded meal.
20of 40
Smoky Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Crushed Red Chile Flakes, Garlic, Collard
For all the BBQ lovers out there, this recipe is a must-try. These collard greens are cooked with bacon, onion, and liquid smoke for a smoky and rich flavor. Serve alongside your favorite BBQ dishes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
One of the most classic and beloved side dishes in Southern cuisine is collard greens. These dark leafy greens are simmered in a flavorful broth until tender, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. And with this top 20 list of beer can chicken recipes, you'll find plenty of opportunities to pair your delicious collard greens with a juicy and flavorful chicken dish.
No Southern meal is complete without a side of collard greens. This classic recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and comforting dish. With a few strips of bacon, some onion, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, these collard greens are packed with flavor and pair perfectly with a crispy beer can chicken.
23of 40
Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Butter, Bacon, Small Onion, Collard Greens, Garlic
If you're looking for a traditional and straightforward collard greens recipe, look no further. This recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, including chicken broth, garlic, and of course, collard greens. Simmer these greens for a couple of hours, and you'll be rewarded with a tender and flavorful side dish that is sure to impress.
24of 40
Beet Greens
Main Ingredients: Beet Greens, Thick Cut Bacon, Chopped Onion, Large
If you're feeling adventurous and want to try something new, this recipe for beet greens is a must-try. These dark leafy greens are often overlooked but are packed with vitamins and minerals. And when cooked with lemon juice, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, they create a tangy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a juicy beer can chicken.
25of 40
Spicy Skillet Turnip Greens
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Turnip Greens, Water, Brown Sugar
This recipe for turnip greens is anything but boring. The greens are cooked in a cast-iron skillet with smoked ham hocks, onion, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce, creating a spicy and flavorful dish that will have you coming back for seconds. And when paired with a smoky beer can chicken, it's the perfect balance of flavors.
26of 40
Ye'abesha Gomen (Ethiopian Collard Greens)
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Cooking Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
For a taste of Ethiopian cuisine, give this Ye'abesha Gomen recipe a try. These collard greens are cooked with onion, ginger, garlic, and berbere spice for a unique and flavorful dish. Serve it alongside a spicy beer can chicken for a delicious and cultural experience.
Mustard greens are another popular green in Southern cuisine, and this recipe pairs them with bacon, onion, and hot sauce for a tasty and zesty side dish. The addition of apple cider vinegar gives these greens a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with a juicy beer can chicken.
28of 40
Sauteed Beet Greens
Main Ingredients: Beet Greens, Water, Garlic, Lemon, Olive Oil, Butter
If you prefer a lighter side dish, this recipe for sauteed beet greens is the perfect option. These greens are quickly cooked with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a simple and delicious side dish. And when served alongside a tender beer can chicken, it's a meal that is sure to please.
This recipe for Southern greens is a classic and straightforward dish that never disappoints. Cooked with ham hocks, hot sauce, and onion, these greens are packed with flavor and have just the right amount of heat. Pair them with a crispy beer can chicken for a Southern-inspired meal that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
30of 40
Mustard Greens
Main Ingredients: Onions, Garlic, Olive Oil, Mustard Greens, Chicken
If you're a fan of mustard greens, this recipe is a must-try. These greens are simmered with onion, garlic, and chicken broth for a flavorful and aromatic side dish. And when served alongside a flavorful beer can chicken, it's a match made in heaven.
31of 40
Instant Pot Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Seasoned Salt, Crushed Red Pepper
This recipe for Instant Pot collard greens is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious and flavorful side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe uses smoked ham hocks, onion, and hot sauce for a smoky and spicy dish that pairs perfectly with a tender beer can chicken.
32of 40
Super Greens Green Juice
Main Ingredients: Broccoli, Celery Stalks, Parsley, Kale, Cucumber
If you're looking for a healthy and refreshing way to enjoy your greens, this Super Greens Green Juice is the way to go. This juice combines spinach, kale, celery, and cucumber for a nutrient-packed drink that is perfect for sipping on while enjoying your juicy beer can chicken.
33of 40
Turnip Greens
Main Ingredients: Turnip Greens, Bacon Drippings, Chicken Bouillon
These turnip greens are cooked with smoked ham hocks, onion, and red pepper flakes for a spicy and flavorful side dish. Simmer them until they are tender, and then serve them alongside a smoky beer can chicken for a delicious and comforting meal.
34of 40
Garlicky Vegan Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Large Onion, Garlic, Vegetable
If you're looking for a vegan option for collard greens, this recipe is a must-try. These greens are cooked with garlic, onion, and vegetable broth for a flavorful and healthy side dish. And when paired with a juicy and flavorful beer can chicken, it's a meal that everyone can enjoy.
35of 40
Oven Baked Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Low
For a different take on collard greens, try this recipe for oven-baked collard greens. These greens are cooked in the oven with bacon, onion, and chicken broth for a crispy and flavorful side dish. And when served with a tender beer can chicken, it's a meal that will have your taste buds singing.
36of 40
Collard Greens Gratin
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Butter, Onion, Garlic, Collard
If you want to elevate your collard greens, this recipe for collard greens gratin is the way to go. The greens are cooked with bacon, onion, and heavy cream before being topped with bread crumbs and parmesan cheese and baked in the oven. Serve it alongside a flavorful beer can chicken for a meal that is sure to impress.
37of 40
Oven-Baked Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Large Onion, Garlic, Low Sodium
For a healthier take on collard greens, try this recipe for oven-baked collard greens with smoked turkey. The greens are cooked in the oven with onion, garlic, and smoked turkey for a flavorful and lean dish. And when paired with a juicy and flavorful beer can chicken, it's a meal that is sure to please.
38of 40
Greens and Beans Casserole
Main Ingredients: Garlic Cloves, Fresh Thyme Sprigs, Coconut Milk
This recipe for greens and beans casserole is a hearty and flavorful side dish that is perfect for those cooler nights. It combines collard greens, white beans, and tomatoes for a hearty and satisfying dish. Serve it alongside a tender beer can chicken for a complete and delicious meal.
39of 40
Reverse Marinade Carne Asada with Black Beans and...
Main Ingredients: Flank Steak, Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Black Beans, Green
For a Mexican-inspired meal, try this recipe for reverse marinade carne asada with black beans and collard greens. The steak is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices before being grilled to perfection. Serve it alongside black beans and collard greens for a flavorful and balanced meal.
40of 40
Smoky Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Crushed Red Chile Flakes, Garlic, Collard
This recipe for smoky collard greens is perfect for those who love a smoky and rich flavor profile. The greens are cooked with bacon, onion, and smoked paprika for a dish that is sure to please. And when served alongside a flavorful and juicy beer can chicken, it's a match made in heaven.
Making the Perfect Greens
Step 1: Choosing the Greens
The first and most important step in making southern-style greens is choosing the right type of greens. Collard greens, mustard greens, and turnip greens are the most commonly used varieties. When selecting your greens, look for fresh, crisp leaves with no signs of wilting. Avoid using pre-cut or bagged greens as they tend to lose their nutrients and flavor. If you have access to a farmer's market, opt for locally grown greens for the freshest taste.
Step 2: Preparing the Greens
Once you have chosen your greens, it's time to clean and prepare them. Rinse the greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, remove the tough stems by folding the leaves in half and tearing the stem away. Discard any discolored or damaged leaves. Next, chop the greens into bite-sized pieces and set them aside.
Step 3: Cooking the Greens
In a large pot, heat up some bacon fat over medium-high heat. Once the fat has melted, add in diced onions and garlic. Let them cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Then, add in the chopped greens, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. The broth will add depth of flavor while the vinegar will help balance out the bitterness of the greens. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender and flavorful the greens will be.
Step 4: Seasoning the Greens
About 30 minutes before the greens are done cooking, add in your desired seasonings. Some popular choices include salt, pepper, sugar, and hot sauce. Adjust the seasonings to your liking, but be sure not to overdo it as the flavors will continue to develop as the greens cook.
Step 5: Serving the Greens
Once the greens are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove them from the heat and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot as a side dish with your favorite southern-style meal. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some crumbled bacon on top.
Make it Your Own
Now that you have the basic recipe for southern-style greens, feel free to make it your own by adding your own unique twist. Some ideas include adding smoked ham hocks or smoked turkey for a richer flavor, or adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
In conclusion, southern-style greens are a beloved dish for their rich and hearty flavors. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can easily recreate this traditional dish in your own kitchen. So go ahead and give our recipe a try, and don't be afraid to add your own personal touch. Your taste buds will thank you.