Tangy Collard Greens Slaw: A Fresh Twist on a Classic

Yo, what's good food fam? Get ready to elevate your taste buds with this bangin' Collard Greens Slaw recipe! We're talkin' fresh, crunchy greens mixed with a zesty, tangy twist that'll have you vibin' with every bite.

This ain't your grandma's slaw—it's the remix you never knew you needed. Perfect for your next cookout, BBQ, or just when you're feelin' fresh and fly. Let's get cookin' and bring some flavor to the table!

Related Collard Greens Posts:

• Southern Collard Greens
• Mess 'O Greens (mixed Southern greens)
• Collards with Smoked Brisket

Vegetarian Collard Greens Dish - Tangy slaw recipe that comes together in a few minutes and delivers deep, unique flavor despite using only a few ingredients. Feta cheese is marinated in a citrus vinaigrette that replaces traditional mayonnaise use.

I love collard greens and eat them in some form at least once a week. I know the mention of collard greens conjures up images of Southern-style collard greens slowly simmered in a smoky meat-based potlikker. I'm down with those too, but despite popular belief, collard greens can be made in so many different ways.

One of my goals this year is to share some of these ways with you. I plan to share one recipe a month. They will run the gamut from super simple to the more sophisticated, from health collard greens to more indulgent. Some I just make up on the spot, others are researched and planned.

black history month inspiration

But on the subject of feta, how many collard greens recipes you know call on feta. Feta sticks out like a fish out of water, sort of like a black dude on ice skates playing hockey, let alone in the National Hockey League. Such is the case for the two pioneers I'm profiling in this post.

The first is Willie O'Ree who on my birthday, January 18, 1958, became the first black person to play in the NHL becoming essentially the Jackie Robinson of hockey. His is a unique story as he hid and overcame blindness in one eye to achieve his dream of playing professional odds not only against the odds of limited vision but also in the face of daily terrible racism. Amazingly he is still with us as a living legend.

He paved the way for perhaps the greatest goalie the game has ever seen in Grant Fuhr who was the top goalie in the league during Edmonton Oilers dominance in the 80s along with Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier. Fuhr is a Hall of Famer and multi-time Stanley Cup Champion. In recent years his life was chronicled in the documentary "Making Coco"

I first got interested in hockey after reading about the Miracle on Lake Placid which focused on the U.S. Olympic Hockey Team defeat of the Russian Team. Learning of Grant Fuhr brought me in deeper into the game and provided me with further validation going against the grain was a good thing in any facet including cooking.

I have no qualms about testing limits and though I'm a huge believer in celebrating and honoring tradition, I believe wholeheartedly in challenging convention. To my collard greens purists, I apologize with my tongue firmly planted in my right cheek.

Beats and Eats (music that pairs well with collards slaw)

Wu-Tang Clan's "Pioneer the Frontier" pairs perfectly with collard greens slaw for several reasons:

1. Energy and Flavor: The song's intense, high-energy beats and powerful lyrics mirror the bold, vibrant flavors of collard greens slaw. Both the track and the dish bring an undeniable zest that leaves a lasting impression.
2. Cultural Roots: Wu-Tang Clan's music is deeply rooted in cultural and community pride, much like collard greens, which are a staple in Southern and African American cuisine. The pairing celebrates heritage and tradition in a modern, dynamic way.
3. Fresh and Unique: Just as Wu-Tang Clan is known for their innovative and unique sound, collard greens slaw offers a fresh twist on traditional slaw recipes. Both the song and the dish stand out and make a statement.
4. Balance of Elements: "Pioneer the Frontier" masterfully balances strong rhythms with intricate lyrics, similar to how collard greens slaw balances the earthy greens with tangy dressing and crunchy textures. This harmony of elements creates an experience that's both satisfying and memorable.

Key Ingredients Needed To Make This Slaw

The base for this slaw recipe is simple collard greens and cabbage. Everything else besides the liquid ingredients for the most part is just add ons.

• Green Cabbage
• Collard greens - you'll want to cut collard greens into thin strips.
• Crumbled feta
• Red onion
• Green onions
• Lime juice
• Red wine vinegar
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional)

How To Make Slaw (step by step)

There isn't much to making this collard greens recipe.

Step 1:

• Combine shredded cabbage, greens, feta, red onions and chopped green onions in a large bowl.

Step 2:

• In a separate bowl whisk together vinegar, olive oil, lime juice, kosher or sea salt, ground black pepper, and sugar. Pour over the slaw and toss.

Step 3:

• Refrigerate until ready to serve. Taste and season (sprinkle salt) as necessary.

What To Serve With Collards Slaw

Collard greens slaw pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious ideas to complement your slaw:

1. BBQ Ribs: The smoky, savory flavors of BBQ ribs are perfectly balanced by the fresh, tangy slaw.
2. Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken and crunchy slaw make for a classic Southern combo.
3. Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Top your sandwiches with collard greens slaw for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
4. Grilled Fish Tacos: Add a refreshing crunch to your tacos with a generous serving of slaw.
5. Burgers: Use the slaw as a topping to add a tangy twist to your burgers.
6. Blackened Shrimp: The zesty slaw complements the spicy, smoky shrimp perfectly.
7. Cornbread: A side of sweet, buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with the fresh, tangy slaw.
8. Smoked Sausages: Serve alongside smoked sausages for a hearty, flavorful meal.
9. Roasted Vegetables: The slaw adds a refreshing contrast to savory, caramelized veggies.
10. Baked Beans: The sweet and smoky flavors of baked beans pair nicely with the crisp, tangy slaw.

Collard Greens Slaw Cooking Tips

• Place cabbage in a strainer and toss with salt before to get more flavor. Let sit for about 15 minutes and then rinse well and let dry for a few minutes.
• Cut greens chiffanade style, i.e. into thin strips vs. leafy cuts. This allows the acid in the vinegar and lime juice to cook the greens faster removing any of the bitterness
• Refrigerate after preparing and give the slaw flavors time to come together and become balanced
• Serve with air fryer brats, fried chicken, vegan fried chicken sandwich, or rib tips. Include this cherry tomato salad as a starter.
• I eat the slaw as is, but also like to top my sandwiches with it especially a smoked rib sandwich.
• For additional top notch side dish ideas checkout my side dish roundup.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a lil kick
• It's not my thing but if you prefer a lil protein mixed with your slaw regular or turkey bacon can add some extra crisp and savory.

Guidance for Swaps

• Kale: Swap collard greens with kale for a similarly hearty and nutritious option. Other leafy greens like mustard greens or turnip greens can work in place of collards.
• Cabbage: Use green plus purple cabbage for a more vibrant color and crunchy texture.
• Swiss Chard: Try Swiss chard for a colorful and slightly earthy alternative.
• Broccoli Slaw: Pre-packaged broccoli slaw mix can provide a crunchy, convenient substitution.
• Brussels Sprouts: Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts can add a unique twist and a bit of bite.
• Arugula: For a peppery kick, substitute with arugula, which pairs well with tangy dressings.

Variation Ideas

Here are some tasty variations on collard greens slaw to try out:

1. Asian-Inspired Collard Greens Slaw:
   • Add shredded carrots, thinly sliced bell pepper, and chopped scallions.
   • Dress with a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of honey.
   • Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish.
2. Spicy Collard Greens Slaw:
   • Mix in julienned radishes, jalapeños, and red onion.
   • Use a dressing made of lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and a dash of hot sauce.
   • Top with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
3. Creamy Collard Greens Slaw:
   • Combine with shredded cabbage and grated apple for sweetness.
   • Make a creamy dressing with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a bit of sugar.
   • Add some dried cranberries or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
4. Southern-Style Collard Greens Slaw:
   • Include ingredients like thinly sliced red onion, chopped green peppers, and grated carrots.
   • Use a tangy dressing made with buttermilk, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar.
   • Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits for a smoky finish.
5. Avocado Collard Greens Slaw:
   • Add diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and corn kernels.
   • Dress with a creamy avocado dressing made with blended avocado, lime juice, olive oil, and a bit of garlic.
   • Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Frequently Asked Questions about Collard Greens Cole Slaw

Can I use collard greens instead of cabbage in traditional coleslaw?

Yes, collard greens can be used instead of cabbage. They provide a slightly different texture and a more robust flavor, adding a unique twist to the classic dish.

How do I prepare collard greens for slaw?

To prepare collard greens for slaw, wash them thoroughly, remove the tough stems, and thinly slice the leaves into strips. This will make them easier to mix with other ingredients and dressings.

What kind of dressing goes well with collard greens slaw?

Collard greens slaw can be dressed with various types of dressings, such as:

• Tangy vinaigrette (made with vinegar, oil, and seasonings)
• Creamy dressing (made with mayonnaise, yogurt, or buttermilk)
• Asian-inspired dressing (made with soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar)
• Citrus-based dressing (made with lemon or lime juice and olive oil)

How long does collard greens slaw last in the refrigerator?

Collard greens slaw can last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. However, it's best enjoyed fresh, as the greens may become soggy over time.

Can I make collard greens slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make collard greens slaw ahead of time. Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving to keep the slaw crisp and fresh.

Can I add other vegetables to collard greens slaw?

Absolutely! You can add a variety of vegetables to collard greens slaw, such as shredded carrots, bell peppers, onions, radishes, and more. This adds extra flavor, color, and nutrition.

For more of the best collard greens recipes

These include recipe cooked traditional ways or more new school like instant pot.

Curried Collard Greens

Cajun Sausage Dog w/ Collard Greens Relish

Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

Smoked Brisket Collard Greens

Braised Collard Greens

Collard Greens Salad

Blackeyed Pea and Collards

Collard Greens 101

Making Vegetarian Collard Greens Slaw with Feta Cheese

If you make a version of this simple collard greens recipe, please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

You can also keep up with my food exploits as well as original recipes! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. If you like any of the music you find on the site, visit me at Spotify to find curated monthly playlists.

Sharing is caring!