Collard greens are a healthy and versatile leafy green vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They are packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and calcium. One of the easiest and most delicious ways to prepare collard greens is by making a raw recipe. Raw collard greens retain all of their nutrients and offer a refreshing crunch that is perfect for salads, wraps, and even smoothies. In this article, we will explore the best easy raw collard greens recipe that you can try at home.
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4-5 large collard green leaves
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup diced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped red onions
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash the collard green leaves thoroughly and pat them dry.
2. Remove the stems from the leaves and discard them.
3. Stack the leaves on top of each other and roll them up tightly.
4. Slice the rolled leaves thinly to create ribbons.
5. In a large bowl, combine the collard green ribbons, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded carrots, red onions, cilantro, and parsley.
6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the collard green mixture and toss well to combine.
8. Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
9. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Q&A:
1. Can I substitute collard greens with other leafy greens?
Yes, you can substitute collard greens with kale, spinach, or Swiss chard if you prefer.
2. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers or avocado.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
4. Can I add protein to this recipe?
Certainly! You can add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
5. Can I omit the oil in the dressing?
If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can omit the oil or replace it with a lighter option like apple cider vinegar.
6. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
While fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor, you can use dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust the quantities accordingly.
7. Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?
Absolutely! Adding some toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or sesame seeds will add a delightful crunch to the salad.
8. Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, you can substitute lime juice for lemon juice if you prefer the taste.
9. Can I use a different dressing for this recipe?
Certainly! You can experiment with different dressings like balsamic vinaigrette, tahini dressing, or a simple honey mustard dressing.
Raw collard greens offer a nutritious and delicious addition to your diet. This easy recipe is a great way to incorporate them into your meals. Experiment with different ingredients and dressings to find your perfect combination. Enjoy the freshness and crunch of raw collard greens in this delightful salad!