15 Easy Collard Greens Recipes and How to Store Them for the Best Flavor

What are Collard Greens

Collard greens are one of those veggies that just feel like home. They’re big, dark green leaves that come from the cabbage family. The leaves are pretty sturdy, but when you cook them, they get nice and soft, soaking up all the yummy flavors you add to them. If you’ve ever had southern collard greens, you know they’re usually slow-cooked for a long time with all kinds of seasonings. Sometimes people add ham hocks, turkey, or even smoked meats to make the taste even richer.

I love how collard greens are not just tasty but also really good for you! They’re packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and they’re great for your bones, your skin, and your immune system. They also have fiber, which is good for digestion. You can make them in so many ways – sautéed, steamed, or even put them in soups and stews. They’re the perfect veggie side dish and go well with all kinds of other foods, like sweet potatoes or quinoa.

When it comes to southern cooking, collard greens are one of the must-haves. You can serve them with soul food like fried chicken or cornbread, and it’s the best combination. If you’ve never tried them, you’re missing out on a veggie that’s not just healthy, but also full of flavor. So next time you’re in the kitchen, give collard greens a try – I promise they’ll be a hit!

How to Clean Collard Greens

Cleaning collard greens properly is important to remove any dirt, debris, or pesticides that may be on the leaves. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean collard greens:

Ingredients and Supplies:

• Collard greens
• Large bowl or basin
• Cold water
• Vinegar (optional)
• Colander or strainer
• Paper towels or clean kitchen towels

Instructions:

1. Separate the Leaves: If the collard greens are still attached to the stems, gently fold each leaf in half along the stem and tear or cut the leaves away from the stem. Discard the tough stems.
2. First Rinse:
   • Fill a large bowl or basin with cold water.
   • Place the collard green leaves in the water and swish them around to loosen any dirt or debris.
   • Let the leaves sit in the water for a minute or two.
3. Inspect the Leaves:
   • Lift the leaves out of the water, allowing any dirt or debris to sink to the bottom of the bowl.
   • Gently unfold each leaf and check for any signs of dirt or insects. If you notice any, rinse the leaves again.
4. Second Rinse with Vinegar (Optional):
   • If desired, add a few tablespoons of vinegar (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar) to the water. Vinegar can help remove any remaining dirt and also eliminate pesticide residues.
   • Swish the leaves in the water with vinegar for a minute or two.
   • Rinse the leaves under cold running water to remove the vinegar.
5. Final Rinse:
   • Fill the bowl with cold water again and swish the collard greens to ensure all dirt and vinegar are washed away.
   • Lift the leaves out of the water and shake them gently to remove excess water.
6. Draining:
   • Place a colander or strainer in the sink.
   • Transfer the cleaned collard greens to the colander to allow any excess water to drain.
7. Drying:
   • Gently pat the collard greens dry with paper towels or clean kitchen towels to remove remaining moisture.
8. Use or Store:
   • You can now use the cleaned collard greens in your desired recipe.
   • If you’re not using them immediately, store the collard greens in a plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator. They should ideally be used within a few days for the best quality.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your collard greens are thoroughly cleaned and ready for cooking or consumption.

How to Cook Collard Greens

If you’re searching for the best collard greens recipe, you’re in the right place! Collard greens are a soul food classic and a perfect addition to any southern-inspired meal. Whether you’re looking for a simple, easy collard greens recipe or a more traditional collard greens recipe soul food style, we’ve got you covered.

These cooked greens recipes are packed with flavor, offering southern collard greens that are tender, savory, and full of rich, comforting tastes. From collard green dishes with smoked turkey to southern-style collard greens with bacon, these greens are always a crowd-pleaser.

With a variety of greens recipe soul food options, including vegan collard greens and southern collard greens soulfood recipes, you’ll find the perfect dish for any occasion. Pair them with other southern cooking delights for a complete soul food feast, or enjoy them as a standout veggie side dish.

1. Spicy Garlic Collard Greens

Servings: 4
Time: 30 minutes

If you love spicy food, these collard greens will hit the spot! The garlic gives a nice aroma, while the chili flakes make these greens super zesty. It’s a simple recipe that’s quick to make but bursting with flavor. You can enjoy this as a side or even as a light main dish with some rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of collard greens
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash the collard greens well and chop them into strips.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the collard greens and stir well to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the greens are tender, serve hot!

---

2. Collard Greens with Lemon and Olive Oil

Servings: 4
Time: 20 minutes

A fresh and zesty take on collard greens! The lemon and olive oil combo gives these greens a bright flavor, making them feel lighter and more refreshing. This is perfect for when you want something easy but tasty!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash and chop the collard greens.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the greens and sauté for about 5 minutes.
4. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 5-10 minutes until tender.
5. Serve immediately!

---

3. Vegan Collard Greens with Chickpeas

Servings: 4
Time: 35 minutes

If you’re looking for a hearty, vegan-friendly dish, this one’s for you! The chickpeas add some protein to the collard greens, making this a filling meal. The spices bring it all together for a yummy and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
• 1 can chickpeas, drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, sautéing for 5 minutes until soft.
3. Add the collard greens and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring often, until the greens are tender.
6. Serve warm!

---

4. Collard Greens and Sweet Potato Stew

Servings: 6
Time: 45 minutes

This stew is the ultimate comfort food! The sweetness from the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the earthiness of the collard greens. It’s super filling and warming, making it ideal for a cold evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat some oil in a large pot and sauté the onion for 5 minutes.
2. Add the sweet potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, add paprika, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the collard greens and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

---

5. Collard Greens with Coconut Milk

Servings: 4
Time: 25 minutes

For a tropical twist, try this coconut milk version of collard greens. The creaminess of the coconut milk really makes these greens stand out. It’s a bit like a curry but with a lighter touch.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onion for 5 minutes.
2. Add the curry powder and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the collard greens, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 15 minutes.
5. Serve with rice or bread!

---

6. Southern-Style Collard Greens

Servings: 4
Time: 45 minutes

Collard greens are a classic Southern dish, and this version is just as flavorful without the ham hocks. You still get that savory taste with a veggie-packed base. It’s simple and delicious!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the vegetable broth, salt, and pepper, then bring to a boil.
3. Stir in the collard greens and reduce heat.
4. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot!

---

7. Collard Greens and Quinoa Salad

Servings: 4
Time: 30 minutes

This is a light but filling salad with collard greens and quinoa. It’s a fresh way to eat your greens and a healthy option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Massage the chopped collard greens with a little olive oil for 1-2 minutes to soften them.
2. In a large bowl, combine the greens, cooked quinoa, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss everything together and serve cold or at room temperature.

---

8. Smoky Collard Greens with Tempeh

Servings: 4
Time: 40 minutes

If you’ve never cooked with tempeh, this is the perfect recipe to start! It’s a great protein-packed alternative to meat, and when combined with smoky collard greens, it makes a delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 1 block tempeh, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the tempeh cubes until golden and crispy, about 10 minutes.
2. Remove tempeh from the pan, then add collard greens to the same pan.
3. Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the greens. Stir well and cook for 10-15 minutes.
4. Add the tempeh back in and toss everything together.
5. Serve and enjoy!

---

9. Collard Greens and Red Bean Soup

Servings: 6
Time: 50 minutes

This hearty soup combines the earthiness of collard greens with the richness of red beans. It’s super filling and perfect for a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 2 cans red beans, drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic for 5 minutes.
2. Add vegetable broth and cumin, then bring to a boil.
3. Add the beans and collard greens. Lower heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

---

10. Collard Greens with Mushrooms and Onion

Servings: 4
Time: 30 minutes

Mushrooms add a savory, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with collard greens. This dish is quick and easy but packed with flavor. You’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can create such a delicious meal!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat some oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
2. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the collard greens, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for 10 minutes until greens are tender.
5. Serve warm!

---

11. Stir-Fried Collard Greens with Tofu

Servings: 4
Time: 35 minutes

If you love tofu, this stir-fry is a great way to enjoy your collard greens. It’s crispy, flavorful, and very satisfying. A perfect vegan dinner or side dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 1 block firm tofu, cubed
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube it.
2. Heat sesame oil in a pan and fry tofu until golden and crispy, about 10 minutes.
3. Add garlic and collard greens. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Serve and enjoy!

---

12. Collard Greens and Cauliflower Curry

Servings: 5
Time: 45 minutes

This curry is creamy and full of flavor! The cauliflower adds a nice texture, and the collard greens bring that earthy taste. It’s spicy, comforting, and just right for a family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 1 head cauliflower, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 can coconut milk
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion for 5 minutes until soft.
2. Add curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in cauliflower, coconut milk, and salt.
4. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add collard greens and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot over rice!

---

13. Garlic and Ginger Collard Greens Stir-Fry

Servings: 4
Time: 20 minutes

This stir-fry is so quick and packed with flavor. The garlic and ginger really bring out the best in the collard greens. It’s a light but satisfying dish that’s perfect as a side or light main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 2 minutes.
3. Add collard greens, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 8-10 minutes until tender.
4. Serve warm!

---

14. Collard Greens with Coconut and Lime

Servings: 4
Time: 25 minutes

This recipe is so refreshing with the tropical flavors of coconut and lime. It’s quick, easy, and a great way to enjoy collard greens in a fun way. Perfect for a summer meal!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté collard greens in a pan for 10 minutes.
2. Stir in coconut milk and cook for 5 more minutes.
3. Add lime juice and salt.
4. Serve warm!

---

15. Baked Collard Greens Chips

Servings: 4
Time: 25 minutes

If you’re craving a crunchy snack, these baked collard greens chips are the perfect choice! They’re crispy, healthy, and so easy to make. You’ll love them as a snack or a light side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and dry the collard greens, removing the stems.
3. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
4. Toss with olive oil and salt.
5. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
6. Serve and enjoy!

Finding the best collard greens recipe doesn’t have to be a challenge. Whether you’re searching for a traditional collard greens recipe soul food style or an easy collard greens recipe that fits your taste, there’s a dish for everyone.

From southern collard greens with bacon to hearty greens recipe soul food options, these cooked greens recipes bring all the flavors of southern cooking to your table. Whether you’re making a southern style collard greens dish or exploring vegan alternatives, these soul food veggie side dishes are sure to satisfy.

With so many variations of collard greens recipe ideas, you’re bound to find a favorite that fits your family’s meal traditions.

How to Store Collard Greens

Storing collard greens right is super important if you wanna keep them fresh and yummy for as long as possible! Here’s how I do it:

Fresh Collard Greens

1. Refrigerate ‘Em: So, when you first get your collard greens (or pick ’em from the garden!), the first thing you gotta do is remove any wilted or bad leaves. Then, just rinse ’em off quick. Don’t worry about getting every bit of dirt off—just a quick rinse will do. After that, pat ’em dry with a paper towel or clean cloth. You don’t want them soaking wet when you store them.
2. Plastic Bag Trick: Now, I usually wrap the collard greens loosely in a damp paper towel, then put them in a plastic bag. This keeps ’em fresh and moist without being soggy. If you don’t have a damp towel, you can just put ’em straight in the bag too, but I like this method better.
3. Crisper Drawer: Pop the bag in your fridge, ideally in the crisper drawer. This part of the fridge is cool and a little more humid, which is perfect for collard greens. They should stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days this way. If they start to turn yellow or wilty, it’s time to use them up!

Cooked Collard Greens

1. Let Them Cool Down: If you’ve made a big batch of collard greens (yum!), let them cool down before you stick ’em in the fridge. I know it’s tempting to just put them straight away, but trust me—it’s better to let them cool off so they don’t get all soggy in the container.
2. Airtight Storage: After they’re cool, put them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. I like to use the plastic bags so I can squeeze all the air out and save space in the fridge. This helps the flavor and texture stay as good as the day you made ’em.
3. Refrigerate: You can keep your cooked collard greens in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. They’re perfect for reheating and adding to other meals, like stews or soups!

Freezing Collard Greens

Now, if you’ve got more collard greens than you can use in a week, freezing them is a great idea! Here’s how I freeze ‘em:

1. Blanch ‘Em First: Before you freeze collard greens, it’s a good idea to blanch them. Basically, you throw them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then dunk them in ice water. This helps keep the greens’ bright green color and taste when you thaw them later.
2. Ice Bath: After blanching, immediately move them to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and keeps them nice and fresh.
3. Dry and Freeze: Once they’re nice and cool, dry ’em with a paper towel (you don’t want any extra water freezing in the bag), then pop them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. When stored this way, they’ll last for about 6 months!

So, whether you’re storing fresh collard greens or leftovers, it’s all about keeping them cool, dry, and sealed tight. Trust me, with these tips, you’ll always have fresh collard greens ready to cook up your favorite southern recipes or veggie side dishes whenever you want!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)