Quick Garlic & Lemon Collards
A vibrant and healthy side dish featuring tender-crisp collard greens quickly sautéed with aromatic garlic, bright lemon, and a hint of chili, perfect for a speedy weeknight meal.
For 3 servings
Wash collard greens thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the tough stems by folding each leaf in half lengthwise and cutting out the thick central rib. Stack the destemmed leaves, roll them tightly, and slice crosswise into 1/2-inch ribbons.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the sliced collard greens to the skillet. They will fill the pan, but will wilt down significantly. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, then cover the skillet tightly.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the collards are tender-crisp and bright green. The exact cooking time will depend on how thick your collard ribbons are and your preferred tenderness.
Remove the lid, stir in the fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing any remaining liquid to evaporate.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately as a vibrant and healthy side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Proper Prep: Don't skip removing the tough central rib of the collard greens; it ensures a more tender and pleasant texture in the final dish.
- 2Don't Overcrowd: If you're cooking a very large bunch of collards, consider sautéing them in two batches to ensure even cooking and prevent them from just steaming instead of getting a light sauté.
- 3Adjust Tenderness: Collards can be cooked to various textures. For tender-crisp, stick to 5-7 minutes. For softer collards, add a splash more liquid and cook covered for a few extra minutes.
- 4Flavor Boost: A splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika can add depth and a touch of smoky flavor, complementing the garlic and lemon.
Adapt it for your goals.
Smoky Bacon Collards
Sauté 2 slices of chopped bacon until crispy, remove bacon, then cook garlic in the rendered fat before adding collards. Crumble bacon back in at the end for a savory, smoky addition.
Spicy Ginger CollardsSpicy Ginger Collards
Add 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger along with the garlic for an aromatic, spicy kick. A dash of soy sauce or tamari can also complement this variation.
Mediterranean TwistMediterranean Twist
Incorporate 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1/4 cup of sliced Kalamata olives during the last few minutes of cooking for a briny, savory, and colorful addition.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Collard greens are an excellent source of Vitamin K (essential for blood clotting and bone health), Vitamin A (important for vision and immune function), and Vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant).
High in Fiber
The high fiber content in collard greens aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and can help regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to overall well-being.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Packed with antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids, collards help combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation in the body, and may protect against chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen collard greens. Thaw them first, squeeze out any excess water, and then add them to the skillet after the garlic, cooking until heated through and tender. Adjust cooking time as needed.
