Express Collard Greens
Bringing the soulful flavors of Louisiana to your table doesn’t have to be time-consuming. These Express Collard Greens offer a quick and flavorful twist on a classic Southern dish. With a sautéed medley of garlic, onions, and spices, you’ll have a side that complements any Cajun Creole feast.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Collard Greens:
- Wash the collard greens thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into thin ribbons.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and continue to sauté until fragrant.
- Add Smoky Flavors:
- Sprinkle smoked paprika and cayenne pepper into the pan. Stir well to coat the aromatics with the spices, infusing the dish with a smoky Cajun flavor.
- Toss in the Collard Greens:
- Add the chopped collard greens to the pan. Toss and stir to combine with the aromatic mixture. Allow the greens to wilt and cook down for 2-3 minutes.
- Season and Simmer:
- Season the collard greens with salt and black pepper. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the collard greens are tender.
- Finish with Vinegar:
- Just before serving, drizzle apple cider vinegar over the collard greens. The vinegar adds a touch of brightness to balance the rich, savory flavors.
- Serve with Lemon Wedges:
- Plate the Express Collard Greens and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The citrusy kick enhances the overall freshness of the dish.
Pro Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
- Leftovers: These collard greens taste even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld further.
With the Express Collard Greens, you’ll have a quick and delicious side dish that captures the essence of Cajun Creole cuisine. Enjoy the simplicity and bold flavors of this Southern classic!
More Recipes

Smoking Techniques Demystified
Smoking is an art form in Southern barbecue, and mastering the techniques can elevate your barbecue game to new heights. In this guide, we demystify
Read More
The Secret Sauce: A Culinary Alchemy
In the realm of Southern barbecue, the sauce is the unsung hero, transforming a good barbecue into a masterpiece. In this guide, we unravel the secrets behind
Read More
Express Collard Greens
Bringing the soulful flavors of Louisiana to your table doesn't have to be time-consuming. These Express Collard Greens offer a quick and flavorful twist on
Read More
Smoking Techniques Demystified
Smoking is an art form in Southern barbecue, and mastering the techniques can elevate your barbecue game to new heights. In this guide, we demystify
Read More
The Secret Sauce: A Culinary Alchemy
In the realm of Southern barbecue, the sauce is the unsung hero, transforming a good barbecue into a masterpiece. In this guide, we unravel the secrets behind
Read More
Express Collard Greens
Bringing the soulful flavors of Louisiana to your table doesn't have to be time-consuming. These Express Collard Greens offer a quick and flavorful twist on
Read More