Collard greens, also known as the “soul food” staple, is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that is popular in cuisines all around the world. From crispy bacon to juicy fried chicken, collard greens pair well with a range of dishes, making them a go-to vegetable for many home cooks and professional chefs. If you’re wondering what dishes go with collard greens, this article is here to guide you through some of the best options.
Whether you prefer classic Southern-style collard greens or a more modern twist on the dish, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore different ways to prepare collard greens and identify the best dishes to serve alongside them. So, if you’re looking to spice up your next meal with this delicious and nutritious green, keep reading!
Traditional Southern Combos: Classic Pairings with Collard Greens
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and have been for generations. For many Southerners, collard greens are a must-have side dish at any meal, and certain combinations have become classic pairings. Pairing collard greens with traditional Southern dishes is a great way to experience the depth and complexity of flavors that Southern cuisine is known for.
One of the most classic pairings with collard greens is fried chicken. A hearty plate of crispy fried chicken and collard greens is a perfect combination of savory and earthy flavors. Other traditional Southern dishes that pair well with collard greens include cornbread, black-eyed peas, mac and cheese, and mashed potatoes. These dishes, when paired with collard greens, create a hearty and satisfying meal that is both comfort food and soul food.
Beyond Bacon: Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes to Serve with Collard Greens
Collard greens are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal, and they’re a great option for vegetarians and vegans. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan dishes that pair beautifully with collard greens, from hearty grains and legumes to fresh vegetables and flavorful sauces.
For a hearty vegetarian meal, try serving collard greens with a mix of quinoa, black beans, and roasted sweet potatoes. Top it off with a dollop of avocado and a squeeze of lime juice for a delicious and satisfying dish. You can also pair collard greens with roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and beets, or add them to your favorite grain bowl for a nutritious and flavorful meal. For a vegan twist on a classic Southern dish, try making collard greens and black-eyed pea soup – it’s a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for a cold winter day. Whatever your preference, collard greens are a versatile and delicious addition to any vegetarian or vegan meal.
A World of Flavors: International Cuisines That Complement Collard Greens
Collard greens are a versatile ingredient that can seamlessly blend into a variety of international cuisines. The bold flavors of collard greens have been highlighted in several cuisines around the world. One great example is African cuisine, where collard greens are commonly used in stews. In West Africa, collard greens are typically paired with peanut butter sauce, while in Southern Africa, they are cooked with tomatoes and meat for added richness.
Latin American cuisine is another great option for pairing with collard greens. In Brazil, collard greens are cooked until tender and flavorful, then mixed with white rice and served with black beans, fried plantains, and sausage. Similarly, in Puerto Rican cuisine, collard greens are braised with ham hocks, garlic, onion, and tomato, then served alongside rice and beans. The possibilities for incorporating collard greens into international dishes are virtually endless.
Spice It Up: Spicy Recipes That Go Great with Collard Greens
Collard greens pair well with a variety of spices to add a little heat to your meal. One classic combination is collard greens and smoked turkey with a pinch of red pepper flakes. This spicy recipe is sure to warm you up on a chilly evening. Another spicy option is collard greens cooked with jalapeño peppers, garlic, and cumin. The addition of a smoky meat like bacon or ham hock adds depth to the dish.
If you prefer even more heat, try adding some hot sauce to your collard greens. A homemade vinegar-based hot sauce with habanero peppers would be a flavorful addition to collard greens. Alternatively, you could try collard greens cooked with chili powder and paprika for a smoky and spicy flavor profile. These spicy collard green recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for bold and flavorful meals.
Celebrate the Holidays: Party-Ready Dishes to Serve with Collard Greens
Celebrate the Holidays: Party-Ready Dishes to Serve with Collard Greens
Collard greens are a staple in many Southern households and a must-have dish for holiday gatherings. They are a flavorful, nutritious vegetable that pairs well with a variety of proteins and sides. Consider serving collard greens with some traditional party-ready dishes for a festive and satisfying meal.
One classic option is fried chicken. The crispy texture and savory flavor of fried chicken make it a perfect complement to the earthy taste of collard greens. Cornbread is another great addition to the table. Its sweetness complements the bitterness of the collards and provides a contrast in texture. And don’t forget about mac and cheese! This creamy, cheesy side dish is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with almost anything, including collard greens. Together, these dishes complete a delightful holiday meal that will have your guests wanting seconds.
Soup’s On: Soups and Stews That Work Well with Collard Greens
Soups and stews are the perfect comfort food for cold weather, and collard greens can add a delicious depth of flavor to any soup or stew. The slightly bitter flavor of collard greens pairs well with hearty meat dishes and savory broths.
One classic soup that incorporates collard greens is the Southern-style collard greens and ham soup. Ham hocks are simmered with onions, garlic, and collard greens in a flavorful broth, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Another popular stew is the Portuguese-style caldo verde, which features potatoes, chorizo sausage, and collard greens in a simple, but hearty, broth. Collard greens can also be added to classic vegetable soups and stews, such as minestrone or lentil soup, to add an extra layer of flavor.
Sweet Endings: Desserts That Make the Perfect Accompaniment to Collard Greens
Collard greens are a staple dish in Southern cuisine, known for their bold and slightly bitter taste. When it comes to choosing a dessert that complements the robust flavors of collard greens, it’s important to consider something that balances out the savory notes and adds a touch of sweetness to the meal.
One classic dessert that pairs well with collard greens is peach cobbler. The sweet and juicy peaches complement the bitter greens and the warm, buttery crust adds a nice crunch to the texture. Another great option is banana pudding, which has a creamy, smooth texture that contrasts with the robust flavor of the collard greens. Other desserts that work well include apple crisp, pecan pie, and sweet potato pie, all of which add a touch of sweetness to the meal without being overpowering. Whatever your preference, a sweet ending to a collard greens meal is sure to satisfy.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, collard greens are a nutrient-rich and versatile vegetable that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Whether it is served as a classic southern side dish or added to salads, soups, stews, and frittatas, collard greens can provide a hearty and healthy addition to any meal.
Moreover, with their distinctive flavor and texture, collard greens offer an exciting opportunity to experiment with different spices, herbs, and sauces. By balancing the bitterness with sweetness or adding a zing with vinegar or hot sauce, one can create a perfect harmony of flavors that would complement any dish. Overall, collard greens are a delicious and nutritious ingredient that can elevate any dish, and it is worth exploring their various cooking and pairing options to make the most of this versatile vegetable.