Get ready to transform ordinary collard greens into a mouthwatering culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance! This Sweet Spicy Sauteed Collard Greens recipe is not just another boring vegetable side dish – it's a flavor explosion that combines the hearty Southern tradition with a modern, tantalizing twist. Whether you're a veggie skeptic or a green-loving foodie, this recipe will convert even the most resistant eaters into collard green enthusiasts with its perfect balance of sweet honey and fiery red pepper flakes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb collard greens, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the collard greens under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Pat the greens dry with clean paper towels.
- Remove the tough central stems from the collard greens by folding the leaf in half and cutting along the stem. Chop the leafy portions into roughly 1-inch wide strips.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir and cook for 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add the chopped collard greens to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the oil, onions, and spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Drizzle honey over the greens, stirring to distribute it evenly. The honey will help caramelize the greens and balance the spiciness.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes until the greens are tender but still have a slight bite.
- Remove from heat and let the collard greens rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot as a delicious side dish or accompaniment to main courses.
Tips
- • For the most tender and flavorful collard greens, remove the tough central stems completely before chopping. • Don't rush the cooking process – allow the onions to caramelize slowly and the greens to develop deep, rich flavors. • Use fresh garlic for the most intense flavor, and be careful not to burn it when sautéing. • Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level – start with less if you're sensitive to spice. • For extra depth, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end of cooking. • Choose organic collard greens when possible for the best texture and nutritional value. • Let the greens rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together. • Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, while the greens are still hot and slightly crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
