How to Cook Collard Greens Without Meat

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Kari Sutton/Demand Media

Collard greens, long a Southern specialty, are traditionally braised with a bit of ham or bacon to enhance their flavor. The result is a soupy, smoky side dish that pairs well with cornbread and just about any kind of main dish, from Thanksgiving turkey to summer barbecue. But it's just as easy to omit the pig parts and still achieve a tasty vegetarian version of this classic dish.

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Kari Sutton/Demand Media

Remove the tough stems from the washed collard greens and slice into long, thin ribbons.

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Kari Sutton/Demand Media

Fill a large bowl full of ice and water and set aside.

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Kari Sutton/Demand Media

Bring a large stockpot of water to boil over high heat. Add a generous amount of salt. When it is boiling, add the collards. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

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Kari Sutton/Demand Media

Remove the collards from the boiling water and plunge into the bowl of ice water. This step, called "shocking," stops the collards from cooking and helps preserve their bright green color. Drain the collards.

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Kari Sutton/Demand Media

Heat a small amount of cooking oil -- olive oil is fine -- in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add a generous amount of chopped or slivered garlic. Saute until fragrant, about 1 minute.

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Kari Sutton/Demand Media

Add the drained collards to the skillet and salt to taste. Saute for a minute or two more.

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Kari Sutton/Demand Media

Add the smoked paprika and saute until combined. Your collards should still be bright green at this point; they are now ready to serve.