Mediterranean-Style Collard Greens
Collard greens aren’t just for Southern cooking—they shine beautifully in Mediterranean-style recipes too! This Mediterranean-Style Collard Greens dish combines tender braised collards with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, nutrient-rich side. It’s a simple, rustic dish inspired by Greek and Italian traditions, offering fiber, iron, and bold flavor in every bite. Serve it with grilled fish, lentils, or roasted chicken for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Ready In: 30–35 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 large bunch collard greens (about 8–10 cups, stems removed and leaves sliced)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or minced
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed and drained or rehydrated dry type)
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
1/3 cup low-sodium vegetable broth or water (more as needed)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Collard Greens:
Wash collard greens thoroughly. Remove tough stems and stack several leaves together. Roll and slice into thin ribbons.
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Cook the Greens:
Add the collard greens to the pan in batches, stirring to wilt.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, a pinch of salt and pepper, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
Simmer Gently:
Cover and cook on low for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens are tender. Add a splash more broth or water if needed.
Finish with Lemon:
Remove from heat. Stir in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve:
Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with a little extra olive oil if desired.
Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Collard Greens
Remove Stems Thoroughly:
Collard stems are very fibrous. Strip the leaves completely from the tough center stems for the best texture.
Slice Thin for Tenderness:
Cut leaves into thin ribbons (chiffonade-style) to help them cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
Don’t Overcook:
Unlike traditional Southern greens, Mediterranean-style collards are best when tender but not mushy. Keep a bit of bite!
Brighten with Lemon at the End:
Always add fresh lemon juice off-heat to preserve its vibrant, fresh flavor.
Use Good-Quality Olive Oil:
Since olive oil is a main flavor, use extra virgin olive oil for a rich, fruity taste.
Tasty Variations
Add Protein & Fiber:
Stir in cooked chickpeas, white beans, or lentils during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a hearty, complete dish.
Add Mediterranean Cheese:
Crumble in a little feta or goat cheese just before serving for a creamy, salty bite.
Add Depth with Onions:
Sauté thinly sliced shallots or red onions with the garlic for more flavor.
Tomato Touch:
Replace sun-dried tomatoes with fresh cherry tomatoes (halved) or a spoonful of tomato paste for a different depth.
Serve with Grains or Starch:
Serve over quinoa, couscous, brown rice, or alongside roasted potatoes to make it a meal.
Go Spicy:
Increase the heat with extra chili flakes, a dash of harissa, or a spoon of Aleppo pepper for North African flair.
Mix in Other Greens:
Blend collards with kale, chard, or spinach for a layered greens medley.
Q&A – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are collard greens Mediterranean?
A: While collard greens are more commonly associated with Southern U.S. cuisine, many Mediterranean countries use similar leafy greens—like chard, beet greens, and wild dandelion—in their traditional recipes. This dish adapts that style using collards.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. The flavor deepens over time, so it’s great for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stove or enjoy at room temperature.
Q: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
A: You can use cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or a spoon of tomato paste for a similar tangy depth.
Q: Can I freeze Mediterranean collard greens?
A: Yes. Let the greens cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat over low heat with a splash of broth or olive oil.
Q: Is this dish vegan?
A: Yes, as written, it’s fully vegan and gluten-free. Just be sure to use vegetable broth or water.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving – based on 4 servings)
Calories: 120
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 2g
Sodium: 220mg
Note: Nutrition will vary slightly based on the amount of olive oil and broth used.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean-Style Collard Greens are a fresh and healthy take on a classic leafy green, transforming them with bold olive oil, zesty lemon, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re eating more plant-based, embracing Mediterranean cuisine, or just looking for a new side dish idea, this recipe brings incredible flavor, texture, and nutrition to your plate. Serve it alongside grilled fish, chickpeas, whole grains—or enjoy it all on its own!