Vegetarian Collard Greens for a Healthy New Year

Collard greens are a holiday side dish staple, offering earthy flavors, abundant nutrients, and, some say, luck and prosperity in the new year. This healthy version retains the delicious flavor of traditional greens without using butter, lard, ham, or bacon. Instead, plant-based ingredients like paprika and low-sodium broth bring out the natural flavors of collard greens. It has vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants to make it a wholesome addition to a holiday meal or a side dish at any meal.

Varieties and Serving Suggestions:

• Add cooked beans like black-eyed peas or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
• The recipe works with mustard greens or kale instead of collards. 
• For a meatier flavor, add 2-4 slices of turkey or meatless bacon. 
• For a spicy kick, use hot sauce or red pepper chili flakes.
• For a crunchy texture, garnish with toasted nuts or seeds.
• For a balanced meal, serve with a source of protein like turkey or salmon, along with roasted sweet potatoes, whole-grain cornbread, or quinoa for a balanced meal.
• For a smoky flavor, add in ¼ teaspoon of liquid smoke.
• Top with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

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Recipe for Holiday Collard Greens

Makes 6 servings (serving size: 1 cup)

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 bunch of collard greens (about 1½ pounds), stems removed and leaves chopped
• 2 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Wash and dry the collard greens thoroughly, remove stems, and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and smoked paprika and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the collard greens in batches, stirring until they wilt slightly to make room for more.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender.
5. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm.

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Nutrition information: 100 calories; 3.5 grams of fat; 0.5 gram of saturated fat; 0 mg of cholesterol; 180 mg of sodium; 7 grams of carbohydrates; 2 grams of sugar; 3 grams of fiber; 2 grams of protein

Reviewed by Natalie Stein, MS, MPH, CDCES