Whip up a comforting and nutritious side dish with this Easy Vegetarian Collard Greens recipe, a plant-based twist on a classic Southern favorite. Perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic, and a touch of apple cider vinegar, these tender greens are simmered in flavorful vegetable broth for a rich depth of flavor. With a quick 15-minute prep time and just 30 minutes of cooking, this dish is as effortless as it is satisfying. The chiffonade-cut collard greens ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation, while red pepper flakes add a subtle kick. Serve as a wholesome side or pair with cornbread or rice for a complete vegetarian meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts, these collard greens are proof that comfort food can be both healthy and delicious!
Thoroughly rinse the collard greens under cold water to remove any grit or dirt. Pat dry and stack the leaves on top of each other. Roll them tightly into a cigar shape and slice them into thin ribbons (also known as a chiffonade). Set aside.
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the collard greens to the skillet and stir to coat them in the broth.
Stir in the apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the collard greens to cook on medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender but not mushy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt or vinegar to suit your preference.
Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy as a light main course. Optionally, pair with cornbread or rice for a hearty meal.
Calories |
598 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 34.5 g | 44% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.6 g | 28% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2358 mg | 103% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 63.6 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.1 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.6 g | ||
| Protein | 19.7 g | 39% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 811 mg | 62% | |
| Iron | 4.9 mg | 27% | |
| Potassium | 1772 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.