Collard Greens – A Super Food

This staple of the South is packed with nutrients.  Sometimes mixed with other greens like kale and spinach it is also great on its own.

Why it’s a super food:

• Collard greens are high in potassium which is an electrolyte that helps the body stay hydrated.
• Collard greens are high in calcium which helps build strong bones and teeth.
• Collard greens are high in beta-carotene which may help prevent heart disease.
• Collard greens are high in anti-oxidants which help alleviate damaging stress to the body’s cells.  This may help prevent cancer.
• Collard greens are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K.

Here is a great recipe:

Ingredients:

1 pound chopped collard greens

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

1/2 large onion, chopped

5-6 teaspoons olive oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

3 cups vegetable stock

2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped

Directions:

In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil.  Sautee onions until slightly soft, about 2 minutes.  Add red pepper flakes and garlic, cook another minute.  Add collard greens, cook one minute.  Add vegetable stock, cover and simmer.  Cook until greens are tender (about 40 minutes).  Add red bell peppers and season to taste with salt and pepper.  Serves 4.

Image courtesy Kittikun Atsawintarangkul / freedigitalphotos.net