Heart-Healthy Southern Style Collard Greens
Savor the soulful flavors of the South with a nutritious twist in this Heart-Healthy Southern Style Collard Greens recipe. Packed with tender, nutrient-rich greens simmered to perfection in a delicately seasoned low-sodium vegetable broth, this dish offers a wholesome alternative to the traditional high-fat version. Infused with hints of smoky paprika, zesty apple cider vinegar, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, every bite bursts with bold yet balanced flavors. Olive oil replaces heavier fats, making this recipe perfect for those looking for lighter, heart-friendly comfort food. Ready in just an hour, this quick and easy side pairs beautifully with lean proteins or grains, adding vibrant greens to your plate. From family weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, these Southern-style collard greens are a flavorful and healthy crowd-pleaser!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 bunches collard greens
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Start by rinsing the collard greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Once clean, remove the tough stems from the center of the leaves and roughly chop the greens into bite-size pieces.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth and stir in the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, a handful at a time, stirring as you go to help them wilt and fit into the pot. Once all the greens are added, cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar, and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 35-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
After 35-40 minutes, check the greens for tenderness. They should be soft but still vibrant green. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a slight kick, sprinkle in a touch more red pepper flakes.
Serve warm as a healthy side dish alongside your favorite lean protein or grain.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
647 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 34.2 g | 44% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.8 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 684 mg | 30% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 73.2 g | 27% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 34.0 g | 121% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.7 g | ||
| Protein | 23.3 g | 47% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1174 mg | 90% | |
| Iron | 10.6 mg | 59% | |
| Potassium | 2025 mg | 43% | |
*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.
