The Green Vegetable Series: Collard Greens (Part 1)
by David Askaripour
Collard Greens History
Collard greens are a part of the cabbage family. Cultivated for their long, thick, dark green leaves, collard greens have an abundance of nutritional value. Originally from the Mediterranean region, collards have spread to various corners of the world.
Collard Greens Nutrition
Benefits of Collard Greens
- Rich in Health-Promoting Phytonutrients
- Optimize Your Cells’ Detoxification / Cleansing Ability
- Broad Antioxidant Protection
- Calcium-A Mineral for A Lot More than Strong Bones
- Optimizing Immune Function
- Promote Lung Health
- Cardiovascular Protection
- A Healthy Transition through Menopause
- Vitamin E-rich Leafy Greens Slow Loss of Mental Function
Read full benefits at Whfoods.org
How to Cook Collards
It has been suggested that collard greens are best consumed when cooked due to their thick cell wall that locks in vital nutrients. However, I’ll share with you my (top secret) recipe with raw collard greens:
Raw Collard Green Sandwich with Hummus and Peanut Sauce
Ingredients (for 2):
- 2 large organic collard leaves
- Half organic avocado (cubed)
- Red pepper hummus
- Half cup of diced organic tomatoes
- Half cup of shredded organic carrots
- Quarter cup of raw organic cranberries
- Organic peanut sauce
Wrap it All Up
- Take one large collard leaf and spread it with a thin layer of hummus
- Add avocados
- Add tomatoes
- Add carrots
- Add cranberries
- Drizzle on peanut sauce
- Roll leaf up like a burrito and enjoy!
A Few Quick Serving Ideas:
- Drizzle cooked collard greens with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Serve steamed collard greens with black-eyed peas and brown rice for a Southern inspired meal.
- Use lightly steamed, cooled and chopped collard greens as a filling in your sushi vegetable rolls.
- Healthy sauté collard greens with tofu, garlic and crushed chili peppers for a meal that will definitely add spice to your life.
Stay tuned for our next Green Vegetable Series
deal
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