Discover the perfect blend of southern comfort and Paleo-friendly goodness with this Paleo Southern Style Collard Greens recipe. Featuring tender collard greens simmered in a flavorful broth of organic chicken stock, apple cider vinegar, and smoky spices, this dish is elevated by crispy, nitrate-free bacon and aromatic garlic and onion. The recipe captures the soul of traditional Southern cuisine while adhering to Paleo principles, making it a wholesome, nutrient-rich side dish or hearty standalone meal. With just 15 minutes of prep and an hour of slow simmering, the greens become perfectly tender and infused with rich, savory flavors. Serve warm and enjoy a healthy twist on classic comfort food thatβs gluten-free, dairy-free, and irresistibly delicious!
Wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any dirt. Remove the tough stems, then stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into 1-inch ribbons.
Chop the bacon slices into small pieces. Place a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon pieces and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. Add the onion to the skillet with the bacon fat, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced collard greens to the skillet in batches, stirring gently to wilt them down and make room for more.
Once all the greens are in the skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the greens cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
After 45 minutes, taste the greens and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Stir in the cooked bacon pieces before serving.
Serve the Paleo Southern Style Collard Greens warm as a side dish or enjoy them on their own for a comforting and nutrient-packed meal.
Calories |
943 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 46.8 g | 60% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.1 g | 66% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 99 mg | 33% | |
| Sodium | 6373 mg | 277% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 76.0 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 40.1 g | 143% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.7 g | ||
| Protein | 65.1 g | 130% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1404 mg | 108% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 2076 mg | 44% | |
*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.