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Sauteed Collard Greens

This classic recipe for sautéed collard greens offers a vibrant, lighter alternative to traditional slow-simmered greens. By quickly parboiling the leaves before finishing them in a frying pan with garlic and butter, you retain their deep green colour and a pleasant, firm texture. It is a nutritious vegetarian side dish that perfectly balances earthy notes with a bright, zesty finish from a final squeeze of lemon juice.

Rich in vitamins and minerals, these greens make a wonderful accompaniment to a Sunday roast or a smoky bean stew. This method is particularly useful for those seeking a quick, healthy way to prepare hardy winter brassicas without losing their fresh flavour. Serve immediately alongside your favourite main course for a simple yet sophisticated addition to any midweek meal.

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Ingredients for Sauteed Collard Greens

  • 1.1kg collard greens

  • 2 garlic cloves

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, or to taste

How to make Sauteed Collard Greens

Remove and discard stems and centre ribs of collard greens. Cut leaves into 1-inch pieces. In a kettle of boiling water cook collards 15 minutes and drain in a colander, pressing out excess liquid with back of a wooden spoon.

Mince garlic. In a 12-inch heavy skillet heat butter and oil over moderately high heat until foam subsides and stir in garlic, collards, and salt and pepper to taste. Sauté collard mixture, stirring, until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Drizzle collards with lemon juice and toss well.

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.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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