Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, and for good reason. Not only are they packed with nutrients and flavor, but they are also incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. While many people may be familiar with fresh collard greens, frozen collard greens are a convenient and tasty alternative. In this article, we will be sharing a delicious southern frozen collard greens recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your apron and let's get cooking!
If you're looking for a classic and delicious side dish to pair with your beer can chicken, look no further than Southern style collard greens. These greens are a staple in Southern cooking and are known for their hearty and flavorful taste. They're also packed with nutrients, making them a perfect accompaniment to your protein-packed chicken.
This recipe starts with fresh collard greens that are simmered in a flavorful broth made with bacon, onions, and spices. The greens are cooked until they are tender and then served with a splash of vinegar for added tanginess. This dish is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or family meal.
3of 13
Vegan Southern-Style Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Virgin Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic Cloves
If you follow a vegan diet, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of Southern style collard greens. This recipe replaces the bacon with smoked paprika and uses vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The result is a vegan-friendly dish that still has all the traditional flavors of Southern collard greens.
4of 13
"Southern Style" Collard Greens Pesto
Main Ingredients: Leaves, Collard Greens, Chopped Pecans, Dried Basil
If you want to mix things up a bit, try using collard greens in a pesto sauce. This "Southern style" pesto is made with collard greens, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese. It's a flavorful and unique twist on the classic Italian sauce that is sure to impress your guests.
5of 13
Easy Southern Style Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Vidalia Onion, Bacon Fat, Large Garlic
If you're short on time, but still want to enjoy some delicious collard greens, this recipe is for you. It simplifies the cooking process by using pre-chopped collard greens and canned chicken broth. The result is a quick and easy side dish that doesn't skimp on flavor.
6of 13
Southern Style Collard Greens with Ham
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Onion, Garlic, Ham, Kosher Salt, Ground
For a heartier version of traditional collard greens, try adding some diced ham to the mix. The salty and savory ham pairs perfectly with the earthy flavors of the collard greens. This dish is a meal in itself and is sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
This recipe keeps things simple by using just a few ingredients, but the end result is anything but basic. The collard greens are simmered in a broth made with chicken broth, onions, and garlic. The result is a delicious and comforting side dish that is perfect for any occasion.
8of 13
Southern-Style Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Collards, Butter, Olive Oil, Leeks, Yellow Onion
If you want to switch things up and add some protein to your collard greens, try using smoked turkey instead of bacon. The smoky flavor of the turkey pairs perfectly with the collard greens, creating a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for any meal.
9of 13
Fresh Southern-Style Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Bacon, Water, Chopped Onion, Kosher
For a healthier twist on traditional Southern collard greens, try using fresh collard greens instead of canned or frozen. Fresh collard greens have a slightly different texture and taste, but are still just as delicious when simmered in a flavorful broth.
This recipe is for the true collard greens purists. It uses just the basics – collard greens, water, and salt – to create a simple and delicious dish that lets the flavors of the greens shine through. Sometimes, less is more when it comes to cooking.
This recipe is a classic for a reason. It's a tried and true method of cooking collard greens that has been passed down through generations. The collard greens are cooked low and slow until they are tender and full of flavor. It's a perfect side dish for any meal.
12of 13
Southern Style Collard Greens - Soul Food
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Turkey Necks, Yellow Onion, Water
Collard greens are often referred to as "soul food" and for good reason. They are a staple in Southern cuisine and are often associated with comfort and love. This recipe pays homage to the roots of collard greens and is sure to bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia to any meal.
13of 13
Vegan Southern-Style Collard Greens With Mushrooms
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cremini Mushrooms, Vegetable
For a unique and flavorful twist on vegan collard greens, try adding some mushrooms to the mix. The earthy and meaty texture of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the collard greens, creating a dish that is both nutritious and delicious.
Why Choose Frozen Collard Greens?
When it comes to collard greens, many people may only think of the fresh variety. However, frozen collard greens offer a number of benefits that make them a great choice for any home cook. For one, they are available year-round, unlike fresh collard greens which are only in season during certain times of the year. This makes it easier to incorporate collard greens into your meals on a regular basis. Additionally, frozen collard greens are already cleaned and chopped, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits of Collard Greens
Aside from being convenient, frozen collard greens also pack a nutritional punch. They are a great source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C, as well as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. They are also high in fiber and low in calories, making them a great addition to any healthy diet. And since they are frozen at their peak freshness, they retain most of their nutrients.
How to Prepare Frozen Collard Greens
Now that you know the benefits of using frozen collard greens, let's dive into the recipe. To start, you will need a bag of frozen collard greens, bacon, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and your choice of seasonings. Begin by cooking the bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot. In the same pot, cook the onion and garlic until softened. Then add the frozen collard greens and chicken broth. Cook until the collard greens are tender, adding in your desired seasonings. Finally, crumble the cooked bacon on top and serve.
Ways to Enjoy Frozen Collard Greens
This southern frozen collard greens recipe is not only delicious, but it is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish, or incorporate it into other recipes such as soups, stews, and casseroles. You can also add in other ingredients such as beans, sausage, or even pasta to make a hearty one-pot meal. The possibilities are endless with this flavorful dish.
In conclusion, frozen collard greens are a great addition to any kitchen. Not only are they convenient and nutritious, but they also make for a delicious and versatile ingredient. So next time you're at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a bag of frozen collard greens and give this southern frozen collard greens recipe a try. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you.
