- Total: 25 min
- Prep: 10 min
- Cook: 15 min
- Level: Easy
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Nutritional Analysis Per Serving (Serving Size: 1 of 4 servings)
Calories: 141
Total Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Dietary Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 6 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 1 mg
Sodium: 230 mg
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 large bunch collard greens, stemmed and sliced very thin
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
- Heat the oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Saute until they start to caramelize, around 2 to 3 minutes. Mix in the collard greens and stir thoroughly to wilt them. Incorporate the sugar and chicken broth, then stir everything together. Reduce the heat, cover the pan, and simmer until the liquid evaporates and the greens get a glossy coating, stirring from time to time, for about 6 to 8 minutes. Finish with salt and pepper, then move to a serving dish. Enjoy right away.
Whip up this irresistible spicy-sweet collard greens in just 25 minutes and elevate your weeknight meals! This easy recipe from Aaron McCargo Jr. turns humble collards into a glossy, flavor-packed side that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, smoky ribs, or cornbread.[2][6][8] Packed with vitamins K, C, and A, plus calcium and fiber, these nutrient-dense greens support bone health, digestion, and immunity while keeping calories low at 141 per serving.[2][4][8]
Start with a sizzle: Heat olive oil and saut diced onions, fresh minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until caramelized for maximum aroma and a spicy kick that balances the greens' earthiness.[1] Toss in thinly sliced collards to wilt quickly, add sugar for subtle sweetness, and simmer in chicken broth until it reduces to a shiny glaze. Finish with kosher salt and cracked black pepper for bold, addictive taste.
Unlike slow-braised versions, this quick method delivers tender, light results without heavy fatsideal for busy cooks craving Southern comfort with a fresh twist.[3][7][9] Rinse collards well, stem thoroughly, and slice thin for perfection. Vegan? Swap broth for veggie stock and sugar for maple syrup.[1][5] Flavors deepen on reheating, making it meal-prep gold.
Health bonus: High vitamin K boosts calcium absorption, fiber aids gut health, and low-cal profile fits keto or wellness goals, with potassium for blood pressure support.[2][6] Fire up your pan and savor this beginner-friendly dish that pros love for its precise, glossy finishyour taste buds will thank you!
