Collard greens are a beloved staple in soul food cuisine, bursting with flavor and nutrition. These leafy greens have a rich heritage, often served as a comforting side dish that warms the heart and soul. Let’s explore some delicious and easy recipes that will bring the taste of home-cooked goodness right to your kitchen!
Southern-Style Collard Greens with Ham Hocks

Southern Collard Greens Recipe with Ham Hocks from Simply LaKita
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 1 h 50 min Total Time: 1 h 50 min.

Collard Greens with Ham Hocks from Soul Food Cooking
Rating: 3.7. Ingredients: 1 h 50 min Total Time: 1 h 50 min.

Southern-Style Collard Greens from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 3 h 15 min Total Time: 3 h 15 min.
Imagine a pot of simmering greens, infused with the savory goodness of ham hocks. This Southern-style recipe is the ultimate comfort food, with a smoky flavor that dances on your taste buds. The ingredients are simple: fresh collard greens, ham hocks, onion, garlic, and a touch of vinegar, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
What makes this recipe shine is the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. As the greens cook, they absorb the rich, smoky essence of the ham hocks, making each bite a warm embrace. Serve it alongside cornbread for a true Southern experience that feels like home.
Collard Greens with Garlic and Lemon
If you’re looking for a lighter, zesty twist on collard greens, this garlic and lemon version is perfect. The bright flavor of lemon combined with the earthy taste of collards creates a refreshing dish that pops with every forkful. With just a handful of ingredients—collard greens, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes—you can whip up this delightful side in no time.
This recipe is special because it highlights the natural flavors of the greens while adding a hint of brightness. The garlic lends a warm, aromatic touch, while the lemon juice adds that zingy kick. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a healthier, yet delicious, addition to their meals.
Spicy Collard Greens with Bacon

Southern Collard Greens Recipe from Grandbaby Cakes
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 3 h 15 min Total Time: 3 h 15 min.
For those who love a bit of heat, these spicy collard greens with bacon will become your new favorite! The crispy bacon brings a savory crunch, while the spices add a fiery flair to the dish. You’ll need collard greens, bacon, onion, garlic, and your favorite hot sauce to create this flavor-packed dish.
The magic happens when the bacon fat is used to sauté the onions and garlic, releasing a fabulous aroma that fills the kitchen. Adding a splash of hot sauce at the end gives it that extra kick that makes your taste buds tingle. This dish is perfect for those cozy nights when you want something comforting yet exciting!
Collard Greens and Black Eyed Peas
This recipe combines collard greens with black-eyed peas for a hearty, nutritious dish that’s packed with flavor. The earthiness of the peas complements the greens perfectly, creating a delightful harmony on your plate. The ingredients include collard greens, black-eyed peas, onion, garlic, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness.
What makes this dish stand out is its balance of textures and flavors. The tender collards and creamy black-eyed peas create a satisfying meal that’s also great for meal prepping. Plus, it’s a fun way to bring a traditional Southern dish into your home while keeping things interesting!