Collard Greens With Tomatoes, Onion And Garlic
A hearty Southern-inspired dish featuring tender collard greens simmered with smoky beef bacon, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Rich in flavor and comforting, it pairs well with cornbread or rice, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings that crave bold, savory tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start the bacon frying in a large pot.
- Fry for about 5 minutes, then add water and turn up the flame.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the flame.
- Simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, until the liquid has been reduced to about 3 cups.
- Add the greens to the pot. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove the cover and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet.
- Add onions and garlic; saute for 10 minutes or until onions wilt.
- Add the tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Mix and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using turkey bacon as a healthier alternative to beef bacon. If collard greens are unavailable, substitute with kale or Swiss chard. To enhance the dish, consider adding a splash of vinegar or hot sauce before serving. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference, and remember, the longer it simmers, the more flavor develops.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a hearty side to grilled meats or as a main dish with cornbread for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Southern Hash for a complete Southern-inspired feast. Garnish with additional red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Collard Greens With Tomatoes, Onion And Garlic contains roughly 194 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (466% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1230mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. Consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more red pepper flakes or include fresh chopped chili peppers to the sautéed onions and garlic. You can also drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
What can I serve with collard greens?
Collard greens pair well with cornbread and any protein, such as grilled chicken or pork. For a complete meal, serve alongside dishes like Sauerbraten or Beef Stroganoff for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).