Collard Greens Recipe Vegetarian Times: Easy & Tasty Guide

Few dishes evoke the warmth of Southern comfort food quite like a pot of slow-simmered collard greens. Traditionally cooked with smoky meats, collard greens are also a shining star in vegetarian cuisine—with all their deep, earthy flavor and a fraction of the fat.

Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or simply looking for a hearty, plant-based addition to your table, this collard greens recipe vegetarian times delivers. Tender greens are simmered with aromatic vegetables, a touch of heat, and plenty of umami, creating a side (or main!) that pairs beautifully with grains, cornbread, or your favorite protein.

Prepare to embrace a comforting, nourishing staple that celebrates the best of seasonal and local produce, while being entirely meatless and bursting with flavor. Let’s bring a bit of Southern charm to your kitchen—vegetarian-style!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian collard greens dish is more than just a side—it’s a flavor-packed powerhouse and a true crowd-pleaser. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Hearty & Satisfying: These greens are loaded with fiber and nutrients, making them filling enough to enjoy as a main course.
• Full of Flavor: Thanks to aromatic vegetables, smoked paprika, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, every bite is bold and deeply savory.
• Easy to Make: With just a few pantry staples and some fresh collards, you’ll have a dish that comes together with minimal fuss.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator and reheats well, so it’s perfect for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
• Completely Meat-Free: No bacon or ham hock needed! This recipe is 100% vegetarian—and easily vegan, too.

“Plant-based collard greens are proof that you don’t need meat to deliver soulful, Southern flavor.”

Ingredients

Want to try other vegetarian recipes with bold flavors? Check out Bamia Recipe Palestinian Vegetarian Style Made Easy for a Middle Eastern twist, or go global with Amazing Vegetarian Lasagna Recipes for Every Occasion.

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Essential for simmering the greens
• Chef’s knife – For chopping collards and veggies
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon – For stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander – For washing greens
• Small bowl – Optional, for prepping ingredients

Instructions

1. Prep the collard greens:

   Remove the tough stems from the collard greens, stack the leaves, and slice into 1-inch ribbons. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove grit and set aside in a colander.

2. Sauté aromatics:

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrot (if using) and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and lightly golden.

3. Add garlic and spices:

   Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Add collard greens:

   Add the chopped collard greens in batches, stirring frequently. They will wilt down as they cook—keep adding more until all the greens are in the pot.

5. Simmer:

   Pour in the vegetable broth (start with 3 cups) and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender but not mushy.

   If the pot looks dry, add more broth as needed.

6. Finish with flavor:

   Stir in the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup (if using), and season generously with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more vinegar for tang or more syrup for sweetness, if desired.

7. Serve:

   Remove from heat and let the greens rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, with a splash of hot sauce or additional vinegar at the table.

“The key to perfectly tender greens is slow simmering—don’t rush this step!”

Tips & Variations

• Make it vegan: The base recipe is already vegan, but be sure your broth is completely plant-based.
• Smoky flavor: For extra smokiness, add a few drops of liquid smoke or double the smoked paprika.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño for more heat.
• Add protein: Stir in cooked white beans, chickpeas, or lentils during the last 10 minutes of simmering for a heartier meal.
• Greens swap: Try this recipe with kale, mustard greens, or a blend for variety.
• Broth boost: For deeper flavor, simmer a dried bay leaf with the greens.
• Sweetness: A dash of maple syrup or brown sugar balances the bitterness of the greens.

“Try serving leftovers over brown rice or with a slice of soft gluten-free vegan bread for a nourishing lunch.”

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian collard greens are a versatile addition to any meal. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:

• Classic Southern Plate: Serve alongside cornbread and mashed sweet potatoes for a comforting, down-home feast.
• Grain Bowls: Pile the greens over brown rice, quinoa, or farro with roasted veggies and your favorite sauce.
• Protein Pairings: Add a side of crispy tofu, vegan sausage, or white beans for a balanced meal.
• Wraps: Use the collard greens as a filling for whole grain wraps, along with avocado and pickled onions.
• Brunch: Spoon greens over toast or pair with Banana Pancakes for a savory-sweet combination.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring a batch to gatherings—everyone will appreciate this healthy twist on a classic.

Conclusion

This collard greens recipe vegetarian times is a true celebration of plant-based cooking. With its deep, smoky flavors, hearty texture, and nourishing ingredients, it’s sure to win over vegetarians and omnivores alike.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week ahead, or impressing friends at your next get-together, these greens are endlessly adaptable and always delicious.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own favorite spices or add-ins—cooking is all about making a recipe your own. If you loved this dish, be sure to explore more vegetarian classics in our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or try vibrant new flavors with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Plant-based comfort food has never tasted so good—enjoy every bite!

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