Collard greens are a nutritious and versatile leafy green vegetable that can be prepared in various delicious ways. Known for their slightly bitter flavor and sturdy texture, collard greens are a staple in many cuisines, especially in Southern cooking. If you’re looking for quick and easy recipes to prepare collard greens that will wow your family, you’ve come to the right place. Here are five quick and best ways to make collard greens, each taking only 15 minutes or less.
1. Sautéed Collard Greens with Garlic
One of the simplest and most flavorful ways to prepare collard greens is to sauté them with garlic. Start by washing and chopping the collard greens into bite-sized pieces. Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add several minced garlic cloves and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Then, add the collard greens to the skillet and stir well to coat them with the garlic and oil. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender but still vibrant. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish. This method preserves the greens’ natural flavor and texture, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
2. Collard Greens and Bacon
For a savory twist, try adding bacon to your collard greens. Begin by cooking a few slices of chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until they are crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet. Add chopped collard greens to the skillet and cook in the bacon fat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until tender. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix well. For added flavor, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of apple cider vinegar. This dish combines the rich, smoky flavor of bacon with the earthy taste of collard greens, creating a quick and delicious side dish that will impress your family.
3. Collard Greens Stir-Fry
A collard greens stir-fry is a quick and nutritious way to incorporate this leafy green into your diet. Start by heating a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add a chopped onion and cook for a few minutes until translucent. Next, add a couple of minced garlic cloves and a teaspoon of grated ginger, and sauté for another minute. Add the chopped collard greens to the skillet, along with a splash of soy sauce or tamari for seasoning. Stir-fry for about 10 minutes until the greens are tender. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition. Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s ready in no time.
4. Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Using smoked turkey is a great way to add a rich, savory flavor to collard greens without the need for lengthy cooking times. Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add a chopped onion and sauté until soft. Stir in a couple of minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute. Add the chopped collard greens and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, add shredded smoked turkey (you can use leftovers or store-bought) and a cup of chicken broth. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are tender and the flavors have melded together. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of vinegar. This dish is perfect for a quick, comforting meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
5. Collard Greens Salad
For a fresh and crunchy take on collard greens, try making a collard greens salad. Start by washing and removing the tough stems from the collard greens. Roll the leaves into a tight bundle and slice them thinly into ribbons. In a large bowl, combine the sliced collard greens with thinly sliced red onion, grated carrots, and cherry tomatoes. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This vibrant and healthy salad is a great way to enjoy collard greens raw, retaining all their nutritional benefits while providing a refreshing crunch.
These five quick and easy recipes for collard greens will surely impress your family and become staples in your kitchen. Whether you prefer them sautéed, stir-fried, or even in a salad, collard greens can be prepared in a variety of delicious ways that take just 15 minutes or less. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and discover your favorite way to serve this nutritious green!
