Grits And Greens
Creamy grits combined with fresh tomatoes, parmesan, crispy bacon, and collard greens create a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for breakfast or comfort meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring chicken broth and heavy cream to a boil.
- Add the grits and cook until thickened.
- Stir in parmesan cheese.
- Add chopped tomatoes, crisp bacon, and collard greens.
- Cook until greens are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use stone-ground grits instead of instant. You can substitute the bacon with smoked turkey or a vegetarian alternative for a lighter dish. If collard greens aren't available, kale or Swiss chard work well. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grits and greens hot, topped with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or as a hearty side alongside a protein like Cajun Onion Chicken. For a complete meal, consider serving with a light salad or cornbread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the mixture and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grits And Greens contains roughly 1827 calories, with 24g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 173g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (258% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (149% of the Daily Value), and protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 977mg per serving (42% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits and greens separately and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them together before serving. Just keep in mind that the texture of the grits may change slightly upon reheating.
What type of grits should I use?
For the best results, use stone-ground grits for a creamy consistency. Instant grits can be used in a pinch, but they won't provide the same depth of flavor or texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Grits and Greens vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
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).