Grilled Collard Greens is our latest foray into the world of grilled vegetables. The leaves develop deep grill marks and take on a smoky flavor. These can be eaten as a side, or they can serve as a main course with the right additions. Grilled Collard Greens are perfect for a summer cookout or a weeknight meal.
Collard greens are a Southern staple, and they're typically cooked in a pot with ham hocks or bacon. But we wanted to see what would happen if we grilled them instead. We started by removing the tough stems from the collard greens and tearing or cutting them into individual leaves. Then, we tossed the leaves with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. We massaged the seasonings into the collard greens until they were evenly coated. Next, we arranged the collard greens on the grill grates and grilled them for 3-5 minutes per side, or until charred and slightly crispy. We transferred the grilled collard greens to a plate and served them immediately with a lemon vinaigrette. The verdict? Grilled Collard Greens are delicious! The leaves develop deep grill marks and take on a smoky flavor. They're also slightly crispy, which gives them a nice textural contrast to the tender greens. We think Grilled Collard Greens are a great way to enjoy this classic Southern vegetable.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 bunch collard greens
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Remove tough stems from collard greens and tear or cut into individual leaves.
In a large bowl, combine collard green leaves, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Massage seasonings into collard greens until evenly coated.
Arrange collard greens on the grill grates and grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until charred and slightly crispy.
Transfer grilled collard greens to a plate and serve immediately.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or topping, such as a lemon vinaigrette or avocado crema.
Why It Works
Grilling the collard greens gives them a smoky flavor and a slightly crispy texture.
The olive oil helps to keep the collard greens from sticking to the grill grates.
The smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper add flavor to the collard greens.
Massaging the seasonings into the collard greens helps to ensure that they're evenly coated.