Collard greens are a nutritious and versatile leafy green vegetable that can be prepared in various ways to suit different tastes and preferences. In this article, we’ll explore five quick and best ways to make collard greens that will impress your family, all easy to make in just 15 minutes.
1. Southern-Style Sautéed Collard Greens
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onions, then sauté until fragrant. Next, add sliced collard greens and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
2. Asian-Inspired Stir-Fried Collard Greens
Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add minced ginger and garlic, then stir-fry until aromatic. Toss in shredded collard greens and stir-fry for a few minutes until tender. Finish by adding soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar for a delicious Asian-inspired flavor.
3. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Collard Greens
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden, then add chopped collard greens and cook until wilted. Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, creating a creamy and indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.
4. Spicy Collard Greens with Bacon
Cook chopped bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the same skillet with the bacon fat, sauté sliced onions and minced garlic until softened. Add chopped collard greens and cook until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, then garnish with the crispy bacon before serving.
5. Quick Collard Greens Salad
For a refreshing and quick option, thinly slice collard greens and toss them in a bowl with a zesty vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey. Add chopped tomatoes, sliced red onions, and crumbled feta cheese for a burst of flavor and texture.