Collard Greens Vegan

Discover the perfect balance of earthy flavors and vibrant seasonings with this Vegan Collard Greens recipe—a plant-based twist on a Southern classic! Tender ribbons of collard greens are simmered in a rich vegetable broth infused with aromatic garlic, diced onion, and a smoky kick of paprika, while a splash of apple cider vinegar adds tangy brightness. With a touch of crushed red pepper for gentle heat and an optional squeeze of lemon for extra zest, this easy-to-make dish is both hearty and packed with nutrients. Ready in under an hour, these greens can be served as a wholesome side dish or paired with rice for a satisfying vegan main course. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this healthy recipe proves that comfort food can be as good for you as it is delicious!

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 bunches collard greens
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium, diced yellow onion
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 tablespoon (optional, for brightness) lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Thoroughly wash the collard greens under running water to remove dirt and grit. Remove the tough stems by folding each leaf in half lengthwise and slicing off the stem.

Step 2

Stack the leaves, roll them tightly into a cylinder (like a cigar), and slice into 1-inch ribbons. Set aside.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 5

Pour in the vegetable broth, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 6

Bring the broth to a simmer, then add the sliced collard greens to the pot. Stir well to coat the greens in the seasoned broth.

Step 7

Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the greens cook for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and flavorful.

Step 8

Stir in the apple cider vinegar and lemon juice (if using) during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added tanginess.

Step 9

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 10

Remove from heat and serve the collard greens warm as a side dish or over rice for a complete vegan meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1417.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	759.8

Total Fat 38.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3602.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 89.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 39.6g	0%
Total Sugars 15.4g
Protein 31.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1193.1mg	0%
Iron 12.3mg	0%
Potassium 2038.2mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.4%

Protein: 15.2%

Carbs: 43.3%