Collard Greens Recipes Vegan: Delicious Plant-Based Ideas

Collard greens are a powerhouse leafy green that shine in many traditional Southern dishes, but they are just as delightful when prepared vegan-style. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, collard greens offer fantastic versatility, nutrition, and flavor.

Their slightly bitter, earthy taste pairs beautifully with smoky, tangy, and spicy seasonings, making them a perfect ingredient for hearty, comforting meals. Plus, collards are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious choice for any diet.

In this post, we’ll explore several delicious vegan collard greens recipes that are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. From simple sautéed collards to a rich, smoky stew and an easy collard wrap, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with this leafy green staple.

Get ready to add some vibrant, wholesome dishes to your weekly meal plan that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatility: Collard greens can be the star of a main dish, a side, or even a wrap. The recipes here offer a variety of preparations to suit your mood and meal.

Nutrition-packed: These recipes highlight the health benefits of collard greens, which are rich in vitamins and fiber, perfect for maintaining a balanced vegan diet.

Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to cooking collards or vegan meals, these recipes break down the process into simple steps that anyone can follow.

Flavorful: Using spices, garlic, smoked paprika, and vegan-friendly seasonings, these dishes bring out the best in collard greens without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• 1 large bunch collard greens (about 1 lb), washed and chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas or chickpeas (optional, for added protein)
• Whole wheat tortillas or collard leaves for wraps (optional)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Large pot (for blanching collard greens, optional)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or large bowl (for washing greens)

Instructions

1. Prepare the collard greens: Remove the tough stems from the collard leaves and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit.
2. Optional blanching: To reduce bitterness and soften the greens, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath. Drain well and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
4. Add spices and greens: Stir in the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped collard greens to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly with the oil and spices.
5. Add broth and simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and apple cider vinegar. Cover the pan and let the greens simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
6. Finish with sweetness and protein: Stir in the maple syrup and cooked black-eyed peas or chickpeas if using. Adjust seasoning to taste with more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
7. Serve warm: Enjoy the collard greens as a side dish, or use them as a filling for wraps with whole wheat tortillas or whole collard leaves for a low-carb option.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoky depth of flavor, try adding a splash of liquid smoke or cooking the greens with smoked tofu or tempeh.”

Here are some ways to customize your vegan collard greens:

• Add nuts or seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts add crunch and extra nutrition.
• Use coconut aminos: Substitute vegetable broth with coconut aminos for a savory umami flavor.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to intensify heat and smokiness.
• Make a stew: Combine collard greens with diced tomatoes, beans, and smoked paprika for a filling one-pot meal.
• Try raw wraps: Use large collard leaves to create fresh veggie wraps filled with hummus, avocado, and shredded veggies.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Serving Suggestions

Collard greens are incredibly versatile and pair well with many dishes. Here are some serving ideas to enjoy these vegan collard greens recipes:

• Serve alongside your favorite vegan cornbread or Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet contrast.
• Use as a filling for wraps with avocado, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of tahini or vegan ranch.
• Top with toasted nuts and seeds and serve over quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with a creamy sauce like the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to add indulgent texture.
• Add collard greens to your favorite Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for an easy one-pot vegan dinner.

Conclusion

Vegan collard greens recipes offer a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy this leafy green vegetable all year round. Whether you prefer them simply sautéed with garlic and spices, simmered in a hearty stew, or wrapped up in a fresh veggie wrap, collard greens provide a satisfying and wholesome meal option.

Their rich flavors and health benefits make them a perfect addition to any vegan or plant-based diet. With these easy-to-follow recipes and helpful tips, you’ll soon find yourself reaching for collard greens at the grocery store and excited to experiment in the kitchen.

Incorporate collard greens into your weekly meals and enjoy the vibrant, earthy taste and excellent nutrition they bring to your table. For more delicious vegan recipes, be sure to explore other tasty options like our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or try baking with our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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