Collard Greens Recipe Crock Pot Vegetarian for Easy Meals

Collard greens are a classic comfort food in Southern cuisine, bringing together earthy flavors, a tender bite, and a sense of heritage with every serving. Traditionally, collards are simmered slowly with smoked meats for hours.

But vegetarians shouldn’t miss out on this soulful staple! With a few clever swaps and the help of your trusty crock pot, you can create a vegetarian collard greens recipe that’s just as hearty, deeply flavorful, and satisfying as its meaty counterpart—no ham hock required.

This slow cooker version is perfect for busy days or when you want to prep ahead for gatherings and potlucks. The low-and-slow cook time draws out the greens’ natural sweetness, while aromatics, spices, and a splash of apple cider vinegar create layers of flavor.

Whether you’re already a collard greens fan or looking to add more leafy greens to your vegetarian repertoire, this recipe is nourishing, easy, and guaranteed to become a favorite. Let’s get simmering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply prep your ingredients, set your crock pot, and let it do all the work. No babysitting required!
• Deep, Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process coaxes out the collards’ natural earthiness and melds it with smoky, savory spices.
• Wholesome & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, collard greens are a powerhouse addition to any plant-based diet.
• Totally Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly: No animal products required—just pure, plant-based ingredients.
• Customizable: Spice it up, add beans for protein, or swap in other leafy greens. This recipe is as flexible as your cravings!
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—collard greens only get better with time.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Crock pot/slow cooker (5-6 quart capacity recommended)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large colander (for washing greens)
• Mixing spoon
• Optional: Garlic press, salad spinner

Instructions

1. Prepare the collard greens:

   Wash the collard greens thoroughly in a colander to remove any grit. Remove the thick stems by folding each leaf in half and slicing along the stem.

   Stack the leaves, roll them up, and slice into 1-inch ribbons.

2. Prep aromatics:

   Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves. If you like a little heat, measure out your red pepper flakes.

3. Add ingredients to the crock pot:

   Place the chopped collard greens, diced onion, and minced garlic in the crock pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and drizzle with olive oil.

4. Season:

   Stir in the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and maple syrup. If using, add the optional liquid smoke and beans for extra protein and flavor.

   Mix well to combine.

5. Cook:

   Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the collards are very tender and the flavors have melded. Stir once or twice during cooking, if possible.

6. Finish with vinegar:

   Once the collards are cooked through and tender, stir in the apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

   If you’d like a touch more sweetness or acidity, add another splash of maple syrup or vinegar.

7. Serve:

   Spoon the collard greens into bowls, making sure to include plenty of the flavorful broth. Enjoy hot!

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke or a pinch of chipotle powder (check out this Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for inspiration!).
• Switch up your greens: Try adding kale, mustard greens, or Swiss chard for a more complex flavor and texture.
• Boost the protein: Stir in a can of drained black-eyed peas, white beans, or chickpeas during the last hour of cooking.
• Make it a meal: Serve over brown rice, grits, or creamy polenta for a hearty, complete dinner.
• For a thicker “pot liquor”: Mash a few beans or potatoes into the broth during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Love bold flavors? Toss in a bay leaf, a splash of hot sauce, or a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.
• Meal prep tip: Collard greens taste even better the next day, making them perfect for batch cooking. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

“Vegetarian collard greens are even better when made ahead—let the flavors meld overnight for the ultimate comfort food experience!”

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on exact ingredients and optional add-ins.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic side: Pair your crock pot collard greens with cornbread, black-eyed peas, or sweet potatoes for a timeless Southern-inspired meal.
• Grain bowls: Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or millet. For more wholesome vegetarian inspiration, check out Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
• Stuffed sweet potatoes: Spoon your collards (and some of their “pot liquor”) over baked sweet potatoes for a filling lunch.
• Hearty stew: Add beans, tomatoes, and extra broth to transform your greens into a flavorful vegetarian stew.
• With vegan protein: Serve alongside grilled tofu, tempeh, or a vegan sausage for extra protein.
• As a brunch side: Enjoy with scrambled tofu and roasted tomatoes for a nourishing breakfast.
• Bread pairing: Mop up the delicious broth with a slice of Soft Gluten Free Vegan Bread or your favorite rustic loaf.

Conclusion

It’s easy to see why crock pot vegetarian collard greens have become a staple in so many kitchens—they’re healthy, hands-off, and absolutely delicious. With just a little prep, you can enjoy a dish that’s packed with flavor and Southern soul, without any meat or dairy.

Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or just looking to eat more greens, this recipe will win you over with its simplicity and comfort.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own, experimenting with different greens, beans, or spices. Serve these slow-cooked collards as a side or the star of your meal, and let their hearty goodness shine.

If you’re looking for more plant-based comfort food, check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or discover even more easy, affordable ideas with Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.

Happy cooking and enjoy your greens!

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