Get ready to indulge in a world of flavor with these 18 soul-stirring collard greens recipes that will transport you straight to the heart of Southern cuisine! Collard greens, a staple in many African American households, are often overlooked as a humble ingredient, but when cooked with love and care, they can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these collard green recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
From classic Southern-style slow-cooked greens with ham hocks to vegan options infused with coconut milk and spices, we’ve got you covered. And if you’re looking for a little heat in your life, our spicy collard green recipes will get your taste buds dancing! So grab a plate of cornbread or a slice of warm biscuits, and let’s dive into the world of collard greens that will leave you craving more.
Slow-Cooked Smoky Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Elevate your greens game with this soulful recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoky collards and savory ham hocks. Perfect for a cozy weekend dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped collard greens, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the greens are slightly wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker and add the ham hocks.
6. Cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-6 hours.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Southern-Style Collard Greens with Turkey Necks
A classic Southern comfort food recipe that’s both flavorful and nutritious. This hearty dish is made with tender collard greens, rich turkey neck broth, and a hint of smokiness from the cooking process.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 turkey necks (about 1 pound total)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the collard greens and remove any stems or tough leaves.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the turkey necks in olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the collard greens to the pot, stirring to combine with the turkey neck mixture.
6. Pour in enough water to cover the greens and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the greens are tender.
8. Stir in apple cider vinegar and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Vegan Collard Greens with Coconut Milk and Spices
Transform ordinary collard greens into a flavorful and nutritious dish by adding the richness of coconut milk and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the greens are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Collard Greens with Hot Pepper Vinegar
This recipe adds a bold kick to traditional collard greens by incorporating the tangy, spicy flavor of hot pepper vinegar. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their greens!
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 tablespoons of hot pepper vinegar (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped collard greens, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the greens are wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the hot pepper vinegar and broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Collard Greens with Bacon and Onions
This hearty side dish is a classic Southern staple, packed with the rich flavors of smoky bacon and sweet onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
4. Add the chopped collard greens, minced garlic, and cooked bacon back into the skillet.
5. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the greens are tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Instant Pot Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
This recipe combines the richness of smoked turkey with the nutritional benefits of collard greens, all in a single pot. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound collard greens, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup diced smoked turkey (such as andouille or kielbasa)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the collard greens, chicken broth, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Stir in the diced smoked turkey and apple cider vinegar (if using).
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including pressure release)
Collard Greens and Black-Eyed Peas Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Southern dish that’s perfect for a cold winter evening. The combination of tender collard greens, creamy black-eyed peas, and savory spices will warm your belly and your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 pounds fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked black-eyed peas, collard greens, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or scallions.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Collard Greens with Cornbread Dumplings
This hearty Southern-inspired dish combines the nutritional benefits of collard greens with the comfort of cornbread dumplings, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add collard greens, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. In a bowl, combine cornbread mix, milk, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into squares or strips.
6. Add dumplings to the collard greens pot for the last 10 minutes of cooking time.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Collard Greens with Apple Cider Vinegar
This recipe adds a twist to traditional collard greens by incorporating the natural sweetness of apple cider vinegar, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for other meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (for an extra hint of sweetness)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the collard greens, apple cider vinegar, water, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens with Smoked Sausage and Potatoes
This hearty one-pot dish is a classic Southern comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening. The smoky flavor of the sausage pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter collard greens and creamy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups chopped fresh collard greens
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, collard greens, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to distribute evenly.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the greens have wilted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlicky Collard Greens with Red Pepper Flakes
Add a spicy kick to your greens game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh collard greens, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the collard greens to the skillet in batches, if necessary, and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes per batch.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the greens and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens and Okra Gumbo
This hearty gumbo combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the tender texture of okra, all wrapped up in a rich and spicy roux-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add collard greens and okra; cook until greens are wilted, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and filé powder (if using).
6. Simmer gumbo for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Collard Greens with Smoked Paprika and Garlic
This recipe brings together the slightly bitter flavor of collard greens and the deep, smoky taste of paprika for a unique and delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped collard greens to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the greens have wilted and reached your desired level of tenderness.
5. Sprinkle the smoked paprika over the greens and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Collard Greens Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce
This simple stir-fry recipe is a great way to enjoy the nutritious benefits of collard greens, paired with the warmth of ginger and the savory flavor of soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the collard greens; cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
4. Stir in soy sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Collard Greens with Creole Seasoning and Shrimp
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the bold spices of Creole seasoning and the sweetness of succulent shrimp. It’s a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped collard greens and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the Creole seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the greens and stir to combine.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve the collard green mixture hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Collard Greens and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty dish combines the nutrients of collard greens with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add chopped collard greens to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. To assemble the hash, combine roasted sweet potatoes and cooked collard green mixture in a bowl.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Collard Greens with Pickled Jalapeños and Lime
Transform your taste buds with this bold and refreshing recipe that combines the earthy goodness of collard greens with the tanginess of pickled jalapeños and the brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens in batches, cooking until wilted, about 5 minutes per batch.
5. Stir in the pickled jalapeños and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Collard Greens and Chicken Neck Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Southern cuisine, packed with nutrients from the collard greens and tender chicken necks. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting meal anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken necks
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken necks, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
4. Add chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring well.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the greens are cooked through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the soulfulness of Southern-style collard greens with 18 mouthwatering recipes! From slow-cooked smoky greens with ham hocks to spicy collards with hot pepper vinegar, these flavorful dishes showcase the versatility of this beloved leafy green. Discover vegan and gluten-free options, like collard greens with coconut milk and spices, or try your hand at traditional Southern-style collard greens with turkey necks. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious collard green recipes.
