Heart-Healthy Southern Style Collard Greens

Delight in a healthier twist on a soul food classic with this recipe for Heart-Healthy Southern Style Collard Greens. Bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients, this dish uses olive oil instead of traditional bacon fat and relies on smoked paprika and red pepper flakes for that beloved smoky, spicy kick. Simmered to tender perfection in low-sodium vegetable broth and brightened with a splash of apple cider vinegar and lemon juice, these collard greens are both comforting and refreshing. Ready in just under an hour, this easy, nutrient-rich side dish pairs perfectly with lean proteins or whole grains, making it an ideal addition to a balanced, heart-smart meal. Perfect for soul food lovers looking for a lighter, health-conscious alternative!

Nutriscore Rating: 84/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 bunches collard greens
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Start by rinsing the collard greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Once clean, remove the tough stems from the center of the leaves and roughly chop the greens into bite-size pieces.

Step 2

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 4

Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth and stir in the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5

Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, a handful at a time, stirring as you go to help them wilt and fit into the pot. Once all the greens are added, cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar, and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 35-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 6

After 35-40 minutes, check the greens for tenderness. They should be soft but still vibrant green. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a slight kick, sprinkle in a touch more red pepper flakes.

Step 8

Serve warm as a healthy side dish alongside your favorite lean protein or grain.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1919.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	647.2

Total Fat 34.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 684.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 73.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 34.0g	0%
Total Sugars 12.7g
Protein 23.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1173.8mg	0%
Iron 10.6mg	0%
Potassium 2024.7mg	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: 44.4%

Protein: 13.4%

Carbs: 42.2%