Savor the rich, comforting flavors of the South with this Low Carb Southern Style Collard Greens recipe, a perfect side dish for keto-friendly or low-carb diets. Featuring tender collard greens simmered in a smoky, savory broth infused with crispy bacon, aromatic garlic and onion, and a touch of tangy apple cider vinegar, this dish strikes a beautiful balance of bold flavors and wholesome goodness. Seasoned with smoked paprika and red pepper flakes, these collard greens pack a punch while staying light and nutritious. Ready in under an hour, this classic recipe transforms hearty greens into a melt-in-your-mouth Southern delight that's perfect for pairing with roasted meats or enjoyed as a standalone dish. Whether you're embracing low-carb cooking or seeking a flavorful twist on a Southern favorite, these collard greens will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Remove the thick stems from the center of each leaf and roughly chop the greens into bite-sized pieces.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Add them to the pot with the bacon grease and sauté over medium heat until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the chopped collard greens to the pot in batches, stirring after each addition to help them wilt down.
Once all the greens are added and begin to wilt, crumble the cooked bacon and stir it into the pot.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the greens simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until they are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve warm as a delicious low-carb side dish.
Calories |
672 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 24.2 g | 31% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 5528 mg | 240% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 72.4 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 39.5 g | 141% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.5 g | ||
| Protein | 56.7 g | 113% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 1416 mg | 109% | |
| Iron | 14.6 mg | 81% | |
| Potassium | 2447 mg | 52% | |
*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.