Collard Greens Recipe Vegetarian Pasta for Healthy Meals

Collard greens aren’t just for Southern stews and classic comfort food—they’re a vibrant, nutritious, and surprisingly versatile green that can transform your weeknight pasta into something truly special.

This collard greens vegetarian pasta recipe is a celebration of bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and comforting texture, all while keeping things plant-based and satisfying. If you love the hearty chew of collards, the tang of lemon, and the savory depth of garlic, this pasta dish is about to become a staple in your kitchen.

What makes this recipe shine is how easily it comes together, yet how impressive it looks and tastes. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something green and nourishing, this is a dish that delivers.

And if you’re exploring more plant-based meals, be sure to check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for endless inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Wholesome and Nutritious: Collard greens are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber and plant-based calcium. Combined with whole grain pasta, this meal is both filling and nourishing.
• Easy and Quick: Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Minimal chopping and one main pan keeps cleanup easy.
• Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of sautéed garlic, lemon, and a hint of chili makes this dish bright and satisfying. The greens add a hearty bite that pairs beautifully with al dente pasta.
• Flexible for All Diets: Suitable for vegetarians and easily made vegan by choosing egg-free pasta. Gluten-free pasta works great too!
• Budget-Friendly: Collard greens are affordable and widely available, making this dish as easy on your wallet as it is on your taste buds.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for a dinner that serves 4:

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large deep sauté pan or skillet
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Microplane or zester (for lemon zest)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prep the greens: Wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the tough stems. Stack the leaves, roll them into a cigar shape, and thinly slice to create ribbons (chiffonade). Set aside.
2. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente, following package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the collard greens: Increase heat to medium-high and add the sliced collard greens. Season with a big pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Sauté, stirring often, for 5-7 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender but still bright.
5. Deglaze and add lemon: Pour in the vegetable broth or 1/2 cup reserved pasta water. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Add the lemon zest and juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the greens to absorb the flavors.
6. Toss with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the greens. Sprinkle in the grated vegetarian parmesan or nutritional yeast. Toss everything together, adding more reserved pasta water as needed to create a light, glossy sauce.
7. Taste and adjust: Taste for seasoning, adding more lemon juice, salt, or black pepper as needed. If you like extra richness, drizzle with a bit more olive oil.
8. Serve: Divide the pasta among bowls. Top with additional parmesan or nutritional yeast, and garnish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Don’t Overcook the Greens: Collard greens are best when they retain a bit of bite. Overcooking can make them mushy and dull in color.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly meal.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of Cauliflower Vegan Cheese Sauce or a splash of unsweetened plant milk for a creamy finish.
• Add Protein: Toss in a can of rinsed chickpeas, white beans, or sautéed tofu for extra protein.
• Switch Up the Greens: Try this recipe with kale, Swiss chard, or even spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Pasta Shapes: Short shapes like penne or rigatoni work best to catch the greens, but spaghetti or linguine are delicious too.
• Spice It Up: For more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or even a pinch of homemade vegan chili powder.

“Collard greens are one of the most underappreciated greens in the produce aisle. Their hearty texture stands up to cooking and their flavor only gets better with a touch of lemon and olive oil.”

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (1/4 of recipe):

Values will vary depending on pasta choice and toppings.

Serving Suggestions

• Complete the meal with a fresh side salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple tomato salad.
• Pair with protein by adding grilled or marinated tofu, or a scoop of beans for extra heartiness.
• Top with crunch by sprinkling on toasted nuts or crispy breadcrumbs.
• Make it a feast by serving alongside a bowl of 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious.
• Leftovers taste great cold or at room temperature, making them a perfect packed lunch.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta, especially when it’s loaded with vibrant greens and zesty flavors. This collard greens vegetarian pasta recipe proves that healthy, plant-based meals can be just as satisfying and crave-worthy as anything else on the menu.

With only a handful of ingredients and simple steps, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to, whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or just looking to eat more greens.

Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite add-ins and toppings—the possibilities are endless! If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll love exploring even more plant-based pasta ideas in Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals, or discover other globally-inspired vegetarian creations for every taste and occasion.

Happy cooking and enjoy every wholesome, flavorful bite!

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