Embrace Seasonal Eating with Collard Greens
January is a wonderful time to embrace seasonal eating—fresher flavors, nutrient-packed meals, and a deeper connection to nature’s rhythms. If you missed our previous dive into the benefits of seasonal eating, read it here.
Seasonal eating nourishes both body and planet. In the U.S., winter is the season for hearty greens like kale, mustard greens, and collard greens. This month, we’re celebrating collard greens—a winter staple packed with nutrients and flavor. (Not in the U.S.? Check out this global guide from Food Tank to explore what’s fresh near you.) Pair collards with other winter produce like citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts to bring balance and vibrancy to your meals.
Wherever you are, stay warm, stay nourished, and keep recovering. And, if you want help optimizing your healthy eating approach, schedule a free consultation!
WHY COLLARD GREENS?
Collard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and fiber, making them a fantastic choice for winter wellness, a perfect winter green for boosting immunity and supporting overall health. Their robust texture and flavor make them perfect for both quick sautés and slow braises (and, in the summer, summer slaws!).
PREPARING COLLARDS
Not sure where to start with these big, leafy bundles? I’ve got you covered! Check out this episode of Grub and Groove, my Vegetablarian cooking show as I show you how I choose, clean and cook my collard greens, as I make my usual mix with other winter greens like kale, mustards or turnips for a delicious medley.
👉 Watch the video above or here: How to Clean and Cook Fresh Collard Greens.
QUICK AND SLOW OPTIONS
Quick Sauté Flavorful Collard Greens
Prep: If greens are not pre-cleaned, see video above to clean greens, cut stem bottoms, stack leaves, and slice into thin ribbons.
Create your base: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, fresh grated ginger (or ginger powder), and apple cider vinegar or white vinegar to taste. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. NOTE: Taste your base: Before adding the greens, taste the mixture to ensure you like the balance of flavors—it’s like a roux, setting the tone for your dish! Adjust as needed.
Add greens: Toss in the collards and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
Finish: Season with salt, pepper, and/or lemon juice.
This quick dish works beautifully mixed into soups, grain bowls, scrambled eggs or your choice of protein.
Slow-Braised Collard Greens
Prep: See video above to clean greens, cut stem bottoms, stack leaves, and slice into thin ribbons.
Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot and cook sliced or diced onion, garlic, and smoked paprika until softened. Similar to above, add fresh grated ginger (or ginger powder), and apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, or balsamic vinegar to taste. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
Add optional liquid: Add up to 2 cups of broth (vegetable, chicken, beef your choice).
Add optional protein: Add chopped bacon, ham, or smoked turkey.
Taste your base: As you let it simmer, i.e. before adding the greens, taste the mixture to ensure the balance of flavors is to your taste—it’s like a roux, setting the tone for your dish! Adjust as needed.
Add greens: Stir in collards, in 2-3 minute batches as each cooks down as necessary.
Simmer: Cover and cook on low for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens are tender and flavorful.
Finish: Add additional above seasonings, salt, pepper and/or lemon juice to taste.
Pair this hearty dish with roasted roots (sweet potatoes or turnips), a hearty grain/corn bread for a cozy winter meal. Combine with other greens for a tasty combination!
Please share with us collard green recipes or options you use and/or have discovered!
