Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens Recipe

Get ready to delight your taste buds with this sweet and tangy sauteed collard greens recipe. This vegetarian-friendly dish makes a perfect side for any meal. It's packed with healthful collard greens that are sauteed to tender perfection and then tossed in a tantalizing blend of balsamic vinegar, honey, and ginger for an irresistible flavor profile. This recipe is a must-try for anyone wanting to give their greens a tasty twist!

Photos of Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens Recipe

While most ingredients in this recipe can be found in your pantry, there are a couple you might need to pick up from the supermarket. The Vidalia onion, in particular, is a sweet variety that hails from Georgia. It adds a unique flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey and tanginess of the balsamic vinegar. The other ingredient you might need to look for is the collard greens. These leafy greens are a staple in Southern cooking and are known for their slightly bitter flavor and chewy texture.

Ingredients for Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens

Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the onions and greens. It has a neutral flavor which doesn't interfere with the other ingredients.

Vidalia onion: This is a sweet variety of onion that pairs well with the tangy and sweet flavors in this dish.

Collard greens: These are the main ingredient. Their slightly bitter flavor balances the sweetness and tanginess of the dish.

Water: It helps to soften the collard greens while cooking.

Balsamic vinegar: Adds tangy flavor to the dish.

Honey: It adds sweetness that contrasts the vinegar's tanginess.

Ginger root: Gives the dish a little bit of heat and zing.

Butter: Adds richness to the dish and helps blend all the flavors together.

Salt and black pepper: Used to season the dish to taste.

One reader, Aubert Jernigan says:

This sweet and tangy sautéed collard greens recipe is a game-changer! The combination of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a delightful flavor, and the ginger adds a nice kick. The dish is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their greens.

Aubert Jernigan

Cooking Techniques for Sauteed Collard Greens

How to sauté collard greens: Sautéing collard greens involves cooking them in a small amount of oil over medium heat until they are tender and bright green. This technique helps to retain their natural flavors and nutrients.

How to make a sweet and tangy dressing: Creating a sweet and tangy dressing involves whisking together balsamic vinegar, honey, ginger, and butter until well combined. This dressing adds a delightful flavor to the sautéed collard greens.

How to wilt collard greens: Wilting the collard greens involves adding them to the skillet in batches, if necessary, and cooking them until they begin to soften and fit into the skillet. This process helps to prepare the greens for the final sautéing step.

How to season with salt and pepper: Seasoning the sautéed collard greens with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste enhances their flavors and adds a final touch to the dish before serving.

How To Make Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens

With the sweet and tangy combination of honey and balsamic vinegar, these sauteed collard greens make a refreshing side dish perfect for nightly meals.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspvegetable oil
½vidalia,or other sweet onion, sliced
1½lbscollard greens,rinsed, trimmed and chopped
½cupwater
3tbspbalsamic vinegar
2tbsphoney
1tspginger root,fresh, grated
5tbspbutter,melted
salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in collard greens, in batches if necessary, until they wilt slightly and all fit in the skillet.
Pour in water and cook, stirring occasionally, until bright green and tender, 5 to 7 minutes, regulating heat to prevent burning. Drain.
Whisk vinegar, honey, ginger and butter together in a serving bowl for dressing. Add greens to bowl and toss with dressing. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 128.68kcal
Fat: 9.48g
Saturated Fat: 4.73g
Trans Fat: 0.30g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.74g
Carbohydrates: 10.24g
Fiber: 3.51g
Sugar: 5.61g
Protein: 2.73g
Cholesterol: 19.08mg
Sodium: 284.53mg
Calcium: 203.65mg
Potassium: 198.69mg
Iron: 0.51mg
Vitamin A: 274.28µg
Vitamin C: 30.06mg

Technique Tips for Perfectly Sauteed Collard Greens

When sautéing the collard greens, ensure to stir them occasionally. This not only prevents them from burning but also helps them cook evenly. Additionally, when adding the greens to the skillet, do it in batches if necessary. This allows each leaf to come into contact with the heat, ensuring they all wilt at the same rate.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens

Prep ahead: Wash and chop the collard greens in advance to save time when you're ready to cook.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a large pot or skillet to cook the collard greens and the dressing in one go, minimizing clean-up time.

Quick wilt: Speed up the wilting process by covering the skillet with a lid, allowing the collard greens to cook faster.

Flavor shortcut: Use pre-made ginger paste instead of fresh ginger to save time on grating or mincing.

Efficient assembly: Have all your ingredients and tools ready before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens Recipe

vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich flavor and works well for sautéing the collard greens.
vidalia - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar sweet flavor and can be a suitable replacement for vidalia onions.
collard greens - Substitute with kale: Kale has a similar texture and can be used as a substitute for collard greens in this recipe.
balsamic vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a tangy flavor similar to balsamic vinegar and works well in sautéed dishes.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a sweet and rich flavor, similar to honey, to the sautéed collard greens.
ginger root - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger root and will provide a similar flavor to the dish.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for sautéing the collard greens.
salt and freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with kosher salt and ground white pepper: Kosher salt and ground white pepper can provide a similar seasoning to the dish.

Presentation Tips for Sauteed Collard Greens

Elevate the plating: Arrange the sautéed collard greens in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each leaf is perfectly placed to showcase the vibrant colors and textures.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and honey dressing in a precise and artistic manner, creating an elegant and visually stunning presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the dish with delicate, edible flowers, such as nasturtium or pansies, to bring a pop of color and a subtle floral note.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the sweet and tangy sautéed collard greens in elegant, minimalist serving ware to allow the dish to take center stage and exude sophistication.
Create height and dimension: Build the dish with varying heights and layers, using the collard greens to create a visually striking and dynamic presentation on the plate.
Incorporate a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, delicately place a small, edible gold leaf atop the sautéed collard greens to add a hint of opulence and elegance to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together, typically in a bowl.
Serving bowl: A large bowl used for serving dishes, often with a decorative design.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing, chopping, and dicing ingredients.
Measuring cup: A tool used for accurately measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Measuring spoon: A set of spoons used for measuring small amounts of ingredients.
Vegetable peeler: A tool used for peeling the skin off vegetables and fruits.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items.
Wooden spoon: A spoon made of wood, often used for stirring and mixing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Sauteed Collard Greens

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for sweet and tangy sauteed collard greens:

To store leftover sauteed collard greens, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the cooled greens to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To reheat refrigerated sauteed collard greens, place them in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave the greens in a covered microwave-safe dish, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through.
For longer storage, freeze the sauteed collard greens. Allow the greens to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 6 months.
To thaw frozen sauteed collard greens, place the container in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat the greens in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to restore moisture.
When reheating frozen sauteed collard greens, you may notice a slight change in texture due to the freezing process. The greens may be slightly softer than when freshly prepared, but the flavor should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Sauteed Collard Greens

Reheat the collard greens in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5 minutes. This method helps to retain the texture and flavor of the greens.
For a quick and easy reheating option, microwave the collard greens in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the greens to become mushy.
If you prefer a crispy texture, spread the leftover collard greens on a baking sheet and reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy around the edges.
For a flavorful twist, sauté some minced garlic and diced onion in a pan with a little olive oil before adding the leftover collard greens. Cook until the greens are heated through and the onions are translucent.
If the leftover collard greens seem dry, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the pan while reheating to help moisten them and prevent sticking.

Interesting Facts About Collard Greens

Collard greens are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and fiber. They are a nutritious addition to any meal, and their sweet and tangy flavor in this recipe makes them a delicious side dish.

Is Making Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens Cost-Effective?

This sweet and tangy sauteed collard greens recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Collard greens are budget-friendly and packed with nutrients. The addition of balsamic vinegar and honey elevates the flavors without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10. The dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a versatile and affordable addition to any meal. I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, taste, and nutritional value.

Are Sauteed Collard Greens Healthy or Unhealthy?

The sweet and tangy sauteed collard greens recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but it does have some aspects that could be improved upon. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:

Positives:

Collard greens are a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
The recipe uses a small amount of vegetable oil for sauteing, which is a healthier choice compared to butter or lard.
Ginger root adds a unique flavor and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Negatives:

The recipe calls for 5 tablespoons of butter, which is a significant amount of saturated fat.
Honey, while a natural sweetener, still contributes to the overall sugar content of the dish.
The recipe doesn't specify the amount of salt used, which could lead to excessive sodium intake if not mindful.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used in the dressing, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil.
Instead of honey, opt for a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract to reduce the sugar content.
Use low-sodium vegetable broth instead of water to add more flavor without increasing the sodium content significantly.
Incorporate additional vegetables like garlic, red bell peppers, or carrots to increase the nutrient density and fiber content of the dish.
Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as smoked paprika, thyme, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor profile without relying on excessive salt or fat.

Editor's Opinion on This Sauteed Collard Greens Recipe

This sweet and tangy sautéed collard greens recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and ginger creates a unique and vibrant dressing that complements the earthy collard greens. The addition of Vidalia onion adds a subtle sweetness, while the butter brings a rich and indulgent finish. The dish is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, making it a versatile and delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Overall, it's a delightful and flavorful way to enjoy collard greens.

Enhance Your Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and buttery goodness, perfect for pairing with the sweet and tangy sauteed collard greens.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots coated in a sweet and sticky honey glaze, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the collard greens.

Grilled Pineapple: Juicy and caramelized grilled pineapple slices, offering a tropical twist to complement the flavors of the sauteed collard greens.

Similar Recipes to Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens

Savory Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roast a variety of your favorite vegetables with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables: Simmer tender chunks of beef with carrots, potatoes, and parsnips in a rich and flavorful broth for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Refreshing Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint: Combine juicy watermelon cubes with tangy feta cheese, fresh mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a light and refreshing summer salad.

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich and gooey chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes out when you dig in with a spoon. Perfect for a special dessert!

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Serve with Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and indulgent, these stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a rich and flavorful mixture, they are sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: Fresh and vibrant, this classic Italian appetizer is a delightful way to start any gathering. The combination of crisp bread, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant herbs is a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender baked apples, a crispy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Sweet and Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors, with the sweet and tangy combination of balsamic vinegar and honey enhancing the natural earthy taste of collard greens. The addition of ginger root provides a subtle warmth, while the use of butter adds a rich and indulgent touch. The inclusion of vidalia onion brings a sweet and aromatic element to the dish. With these high-quality ingredients, this recipe promises to deliver a delicious and satisfying experience for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious vegetable dish.

Sweet and tangy collard greens are a classic Southern side dish that's sure to satisfy. Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know your favorite way to prepare this delicious and nutritious leafy green!

FAQ:

What is the best way to clean and prepare collard greens?

To clean collard greens, start by filling a large bowl with cold water and submerging the leaves. Gently swish them around to remove any dirt or debris. Then, remove the tough stems by folding the leaf in half and cutting along the stem. Finally, chop or tear the leaves into your desired size for cooking.

Can I substitute the collard greens with another type of leafy green?

Absolutely! If you can't find collard greens, you can easily substitute them with kale, Swiss chard, or mustard greens. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them as they cook.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil. The dish will still have a delightful sweet and tangy flavor without compromising on taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the collard greens ahead of time and reheat them when you're ready to serve. Simply store the cooked greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat and toss with the dressing before serving.

What can I serve with sweet and tangy sautéed collard greens?

These collard greens pair wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, pork, or steak. They also make a delicious side dish alongside rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. The sweet and tangy flavors complement a wide variety of main courses.