Collard Greens with Almonds

Collard Greens with Almonds Recipe - Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 4 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Collard Greens with Almonds is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of collard greens with the crunch of toasted almonds. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful side dish that is perfect for any meal.

History

Collard greens have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back to the early 19th century. Almonds have also been enjoyed for their taste and health benefits for thousands of years. This recipe combines these two ingredients to create a unique and delicious dish.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of blanched and slivered almonds
1 lb (454 g) of rinsed collard greens with thick stems removed
2 tbsp of toasted sesame oil
0.5 tsp of umeboshi vinegar
1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar
1 small clove of minced garlic

How to prepare

1. In a small skillet, toast the almonds over medium heat until they turn golden in color, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Set them aside.
2. Layer 3 collard leaves and roll them into a cylinder shape. Slice the cylinder crosswise into thin strips. Repeat this process until all the leaves are sliced. In a large saucepan fitted with a steamer basket, bring 2 inches of water to a boil over high heat. Add the greens, cover, and steam for 4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, both vinegars, and garlic until they are well blended. Toss the greens with the dressing and garnish with the toasted almonds. Serve hot.

Variations

Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for a savory umami flavor.
Substitute pine nuts or walnuts for the almonds for a different texture and taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove the thick stems from the collard greens before slicing them, as they can be tough and chewy.

- Toasting the almonds adds a depth of flavor and crunch to the dish, so be sure not to skip this step.

- Steaming the collard greens helps to retain their vibrant green color and nutrients, so be careful not to overcook them.

Serving Suggestions

Serve collard greens with almonds as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the collard greens helps to retain their nutrients and vibrant color, while toasting the almonds adds a crunchy texture to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use kale or Swiss chard in place of collard greens for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute balsamic vinegar for the umeboshi vinegar for a tangy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the collard greens and dressing ahead of time and toss them together just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of honey for added flavor and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve collard greens with almonds alongside roasted sweet potatoes and quinoa for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 150 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Collard greens: 1g of carbohydrates per serving

- Almonds: 1g of carbohydrates per serving

Fats

- Collard greens: 2g of fats per serving

- Almonds: 14g of fats per serving

Proteins

- Collard greens: 3g of proteins per serving

- Almonds: 6g of proteins per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Collard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.

- Almonds are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats.

Alergens

Almonds are a tree nut and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Summary

Collard Greens with Almonds is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. Enjoy the earthy flavors of collard greens paired with the crunch of toasted almonds in this delicious recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was hit with the most mouthwatering aroma of collard greens and almonds. Martha had a twinkle in her eye as she stirred the pot, and I knew I was in for a treat.

"Come over here, dearie," Martha said with a smile. "I want to show you my secret recipe for collard greens with almonds."

I eagerly made my way over to her side and watched as she expertly added the collard greens, almonds, and a few other special ingredients into the pot. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Martha shared with me the story of how she had learned to make collard greens with almonds. She had grown up on a farm in the countryside, where fresh produce was abundant and cooking was a way of life. Her mother had taught her how to make the dish when she was just a young girl, and it had been a family favorite ever since.

Over the years, Martha had put her own spin on the recipe, adding in almonds for a crunchy texture and a hint of nutty flavor. It was a simple yet delicious dish that never failed to impress her guests.

After that day, I couldn't get the recipe out of my mind. I was determined to learn how to make collard greens with almonds just like Martha. I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until I finally perfected the dish.

I made it for my family and friends, who raved about how delicious it was. They couldn't get enough of the tender collard greens, the crunchy almonds, and the rich, savory sauce that tied it all together. It became a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would make time and time again for special occasions and everyday meals alike.

As the years went by, I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, learning new recipes and techniques from a variety of sources. I traveled to different countries, sampling the local cuisine and picking up new ideas along the way. I attended cooking classes and read countless cookbooks, always on the lookout for inspiration.

But no matter how many recipes I tried, collard greens with almonds remained a favorite of mine. It was a dish that reminded me of my dear friend Martha and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking.

Today, whenever I make collard greens with almonds, I think of Martha and the day she shared her secret recipe with me. It's a dish that brings back fond memories of that warm summer day in her kitchen, of laughter and friendship and delicious food.

And as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of collard greens with almonds, I am grateful for all the recipes and stories that have shaped my culinary journey. I may have learned this dish from Martha, but it has become a part of me, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.