Collards are a great addition to any meal, and canned collards are a quick and easy way to get your greens. With only 42 calories per 100 grams, they are a low-calorie option that still packs a nutritional punch.
Collards are chock-full of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. They also contain high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce the risk of chronic disease.
In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of collards, how to cook with them, and some delicious collard greens recipes. We'll also compare collards to other greens, talk about their versatility in cuisine, and offer some tips on buying and prepping them.
Aside from being low in calories, cooked collards are an excellent source of nutrients. Here are a few of the key vitamins and minerals you'll find in 100 grams of canned collards: - Vitamin K: 880% of the daily value (DV)
Health Benefits
Collards have a number of health benefits that make them an excellent addition to any diet. Some of the most noteworthy health benefits of collards include: - Reduced risk of chronic disease due to high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Cooking with Collards
Collards are a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a number of different ways. Some popular ways to cook collards include: - Steaming: This is a simple and healthy way to cook collards. Simply rinse them, remove any tough stems, and steam for about 10 minutes.
Collard Greens Recipes
Looking for some tasty collard greens recipes to try at home? Here are a few ideas: - Collard Greens with Bacon and Vinegar: This savory side dish is made with collards, bacon, onion, and a little bit of vinegar. It's a great addition to any meal. - Southern-Style Collard Greens: This classic recipe uses smoked ham hocks to add a delicious smoky flavor to the collards.
Collards vs Other Greens
Collards are just one type of leafy green vegetable, and each variety has its own unique flavor and nutritional profile. Here's how collards stack up against some other popular greens: - Spinach: Spinach is a good source of iron and vitamin K, but collards contain more vitamin A and calcium.
Low-Calorie Option
Canned collards are a great low-calorie option for anyone looking to watch their waistline. With only 42 calories per 100 grams, you can enjoy a healthy helping of collards without worrying about packing on extra pounds. Plus, since collards are so nutrient-dense, you'll be getting plenty of important vitamins and minerals with each serving.
Vegetarian Dish
Collards are a vegetarian-friendly ingredient that can be used in a variety of different dishes. Try adding them to soups or stews for a hearty and filling meatless meal, or use them in place of lettuce in your favorite salads. You can also saute them with other vegetables and serve them as a tasty side dish.
Versatility in Cuisine
Collards are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of different cuisines. In Southern cuisine, they are often slow-cooked with smoked meats for a savory side dish. In Brazilian cuisine, they are often used in a dish called feijoada, which is a hearty stew made with black beans and meat.
Storage Tips
If you're buying canned collards, they will keep for quite a while in your pantry without spoiling. If you're buying fresh collards, be sure to store them in the refrigerator and use them within a few days. You can also blanch and freeze collards for longer storage. If you're storing collards in the fridge, be sure to rinse them first and remove any tough stems before storing them in a plastic bag or container.
Buying and Prepping Collards
When you're buying collards, look for fresh greens that are deep green in color with no yellowing or brown spots. To prepare collards for cooking, rinse them thoroughly and remove any tough stems. If you're using fresh collards, give them a quick blanch in boiling water before using them in your favorite recipes.
5 FAQ about Cooked Collards (from Canned)
1. What are the nutritional benefits of cooked collards?
Cooked collards are a great source of vitamins C, K, and A, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. They also contain soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion.
2. Is canned collard greens as healthy as fresh?
Canned collard greens can still retain some of their nutritional value, but they may contain added sodium and preservatives that fresh collards don't have. It's best to opt for fresh collards when possible.
3. How can I prepare canned collards?
You can heat canned collard greens on the stove or in the microwave, and season them with salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste. You can also use them in recipes, like soups or stews.
4. How can I store leftover cooked collards?
If you have leftover cooked collard greens, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove as needed.
5. Can cooked collards help me lose weight?
Cooked collards are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied for longer. This can potentially aid in weight loss, but it also depends on your overall diet and lifestyle habits.