Pickled Collard Greens with Pineapple
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This vibrant vegan dish offers a contemporary twist on traditional greens, combining the earthy depth of collard leaves with the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple. The pickling liquor, infused with cider vinegar, garlic, and a hint of cayenne pepper, provides a sharp, savoury contrast that cuts through the richness of any main course. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a fresh, vegetable-forward side dish that focuses on bold flavours and seasonal ingredients.
Ideal for preparation ahead of time, these pickled collard greens develop more character as they sit in the zesty dressing. Serve this healthy, fibre-rich salad at room temperature alongside grilled plant-based proteins or as a bright addition to a summer spread. The inclusion of fresh pineapple not only adds a burst of colour but also brings a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the acidity of the vinegars.
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Ingredients for Pickled Collard Greens with Pineapple
120ml white-wine vinegar
120ml cider vinegar
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoons cayenne
1 Turkish or 1/2 California bay leaf
2.0kg collard greens (about 3 bunches), stems discarded and leaves cut crosswise into 1-inch-wide strips
240ml chopped (1/3 inch) fresh pineapple
How to make Pickled Collard Greens with Pineapple
Bring vinegars, onion, garlic, sugar, cayenne, bay leaf, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt to a simmer in a small saucepan, then remove from heat and let steep 15 minutes. Discard bay leaf.
Meanwhile, cook collard greens in a large pot of well-salted boiling water until just tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain well in a colander, pressing to squeeze out excess water.
Transfer greens to a large bowl, then add pineapple and vinegar mixture and toss to coat. Cool to room temperature, tossing occasionally, about 1 hour.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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