Sauteed Collard Greens
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
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.
In this article:
Continue reading below
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

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.