Get ready to dive into a world of deliciously rich and soulful flavors with these 18 flavorful collard greens recipes, Southern-style! Collard greens are a staple in many Southern households, and for good reason – they’re packed with nutrients, easy to prepare, and pair perfectly with a variety of ingredients. From classic slow-cooked smoky collard greens with ham hocks to more adventurous options like vegan collard greens with coconut milk and spices, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a hearty main course, these collard green recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? They’re all made with love and care, just like grandma used to make!
Slow-Cooked Smoky Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Rich and flavorful collard greens infused with the deep smokiness of ham hocks, perfect for a hearty Southern-style side dish. This slow-cooked recipe allows the natural sweetness of the greens to meld with the savory goodness of the ham, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large slow cooker, combine the chopped collard greens, ham hocks, onion, and garlic.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and let cool. Once cooled, remove the meat from the bone and return it to the slow cooker.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Southern-Style Collard Greens with Bacon and Onions
A classic Southern side dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe brings together the tender goodness of collard greens, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Rinse the collard greens and remove any stems or thick veins.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the collard greens to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Simmer the collard greens for 10-15 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegan Collard Greens with Coconut Milk and Spices
Vegan Collard Greens with Coconut Milk and Spices: A flavorful and nutritious vegan take on traditional collard greens, infused with the creamy richness of coconut milk and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash the collard greens and remove stems. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add collard greens to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the greens are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves (if desired).
7. Serve hot over rice, with crusty bread, or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Collard Greens with Hot Pepper Vinegar
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with a spicy kick from hot pepper vinegar, perfect for adding some heat to your meals. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is a great way to get your daily dose of greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup hot pepper vinegar (such as Carolina Reaper or habanero)
– 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 and hot pepper vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until greens are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a dash of hot pepper vinegar if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Collard Greens with Turkey Necks and Garlic
This classic Southern dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. The rich flavor of turkey necks pairs beautifully with the slightly bitter taste of collard greens, all tied together with a punch of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 turkey necks (or 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions:
1. Cut the collard greens into large pieces and remove any stems.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey necks (or chicken) and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. Add the collard greens to the pot in batches, if necessary, and cook until wilted, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Return the turkey necks (or chicken) to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a splash of chicken broth or water, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes
Instant Pot Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
This hearty and comforting recipe combines the nutty flavor of collard greens with the rich, smoky taste of turkey. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chopped collard greens, smoked turkey, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid.
5. Set the valve to “Sealing” and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Collard Greens and Black-Eyed Peas Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. With the creamy texture of black-eyed peas and the slightly bitter flavor of collard greens, this dish is sure to warm your belly and your heart.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups chopped fresh collard greens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high 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 soaked black-eyed peas, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
7. Stir in the chopped collard greens and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the greens have wilted.
Cooking Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes
Collard Greens with Cornbread Dumplings
This hearty dish combines the nutritional benefits of collard greens with the warm, comforting taste of cornbread dumplings. A perfect blend of Southern flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, washed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the cornbread dumplings by mixing the cornbread mix with water in a bowl until a dough forms.
7. Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the collard green mixture.
8. Cover the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
9. Serve hot, topped with melted butter.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creole-Style Collard Greens with Andouille Sausage
A classic Creole dish that combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the spicy kick of andouille sausage. This hearty side dish is perfect for a Sunday supper or as a complement to your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 slices andouille sausage, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, Creole seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Gradually add the collard greens, stirring to combine with the sausage mixture.
6. Cook, covered, over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Collard Greens with Pot Likker and Hot Sauce
This classic Southern recipe combines the nutritional benefits of collard greens with the rich flavors of pot likker (the liquid left over from cooking greens) and a spicy kick from hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pot likker (from cooking greens)
– 2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped collard greens and stir to combine with onion mixture.
3. Pour in chicken broth and pot likker; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until greens are tender.
5. Stir in hot sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the earthy taste of collard greens with the warmth of ginger and the savory notes of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped collard greens and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to wilt.
4. Add the soy sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the greens are tender.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Collard Greens Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this hearty and flavorful collard greens salad featuring a rich warm bacon dressing. This comforting side dish is perfect for chilly evenings or as a nutritious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the chopped garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Combine the cooked bacon, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey in a blender or food processor.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy.
7. In a large bowl, combine the chopped collard greens and warm bacon dressing.
8. Toss to coat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Collard Greens Wraps with Spicy Peanut Sauce
Discover a flavorful twist on traditional wraps by incorporating nutrient-rich collard greens and creamy spicy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of natural peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 large collard leaves
– Optional: sliced bell peppers, avocado, or crumbled feta for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add chopped collard greens and cook until wilted.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
5. Warm collard leaves in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble wraps by spreading peanut sauce on a leaf, adding sautéed greens, and topping with optional ingredients (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens and Sweet Potato Hash
A Southern-inspired side dish that combines the rich flavors of collard greens with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of collard greens, chopped
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the chopped collard greens and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Drain the collard greens and add them to the sweet potato mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Transfer the hash to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Collard Greens with Apple Cider Vinegar and Brown Sugar
This simple recipe combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the tanginess of apple cider vinegar and the richness of brown sugar. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash the collard greens and remove stems. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 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, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the greens are tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Collard Greens and Shrimp Gumbo
This hearty gumbo combines the richness of collard greens with the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a flavorful roux-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until tender.
2. Add collard greens, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until greens are slightly wilted.
3. Stir in chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until greens are tender.
4. Add shrimp; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Collard Greens Pesto Pasta with Toasted Pecans
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of collard greens with the richness of toasted pecans and the creaminess of pesto, all on a bed of al dente pasta. A delicious and healthy vegetarian option perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups fresh or frozen collard greens
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine collard greens, pesto, and toasted pecans. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the collard green mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the collard green mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Collard Greens and Smoked Sausage Soup
This comforting soup combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the spicy kick of smoked sausage, making it a perfect winter warmer. With minimal prep time and a rich broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups collard greens, chopped (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage and set aside. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the collard greens, chicken broth, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
5. Return the sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of soul food with these 18 delicious collard greens recipes! From classic Southern-style dishes like Smoky Collard Greens with Ham Hocks and Bacon and Onions to vegan and vegetarian options like Coconut Milk and Spices, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Spicy Collard Greens with Hot Pepper Vinegar or Collard Greens Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce. Whether you’re a fan of slow-cooked comfort food or quick-and-easy meals, these recipes will have you coming back for more.
