If you have ever wanted a soul-satisfying way to enjoy greens that are both nutritious and bursting with flavor, this Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Using the pressure cooker transforms normally tough collard greens into tender, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness in a fraction of the time. The combination of smoky paprika, savory broth, and bright apple cider vinegar creates a perfectly balanced dish that’s vibrant, hearty, and incredibly comforting. Whether you’re making a simple weeknight dinner or bringing a classic Southern staple to a gathering, this recipe delivers genuine warmth and freshness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient works together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the hearty greens to the aromatic sautéed onions and garlic, every item on this list is thoughtfully chosen to create a dish that feels both rustic and elegant.
- Collard Greens (1 large bunch, about 12 oz), stems removed and chopped: The star of the dish, providing earthy flavor and a satisfying chew.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, softening the overall palate.
- Garlic Cloves (4, minced): Gives a punch of aromatic flavor that infuses into the greens as they cook.
- Vegetable Broth (3 cups): Creates a savory cooking liquid that steeps into the collards, keeping them moist and flavorful.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing, it lends a subtle richness and helps soften the onions and garlic.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Added at the end to brighten the dish with a tangy kick that balances the greens.
- Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a smoky, slightly sweet character that makes the collards irresistible.
- Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste): Essential to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a touch of warming spice without overpowering.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional, ¼ teaspoon): For those who like a hint of heat, this small addition wakes up the palate.
How to Make Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat the olive oil until shimmering, then add the chopped onion. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent—this step is where the natural sweetness starts to develop. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. These aromatics build the flavorful foundation for your collard greens.
Step 2: Add Broth and Greens
Pour in the vegetable broth, which will infuse into the greens and keep everything moist during pressure cooking. Add the collard greens a handful at a time, stirring gently to submerge them in the liquid. This layering technique helps the greens wilt evenly as they cook.
Step 3: Season the Pot
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and if you like a little heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Take a moment to stir everything together so the flavors start mingling right away. The paprika will lend a smoky dimension that brings real soul to the dish.
Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection
Lock the lid on your Instant Pot and make sure the valve is sealed. Set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 to 15 minutes—this keeps the greens tender and avoids a sudden burst of steam that could toughen them.
Step 5: Finish with a Tangy Boost
Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid carefully and stir in that bright tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This final touch cuts through the richness and lifts the overall flavor, making each bite fresh and vibrant. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Instant Pot Collard Greens hot with some of the flavorful broth spooned over the top. The greens will be tender yet still hold a little bite, with savory, smoky, and tangy notes that will keep you coming back for more.
How to Serve Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes elevates this dish beautifully. Consider topping your collard greens with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil for richness. A sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds or chopped fresh parsley can add a lovely textural contrast and fresh herbal notes that brighten the plate.
Side Dishes
Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Southern staples like cornbread, skillet-fried chicken, or creamy grits. For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes or a tangy black-eyed pea salad. The greens’ smoky and tangy flavors complement a variety of mains and help round out any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the collard greens layered over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome, filling meal. You can also use them as a hearty side in grain bowls with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of tahini sauce. For a fun twist, chop cooled leftovers and fold them into scrambled eggs or an omelet for an unexpected burst of flavor at breakfast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the greens even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Transfer cooled collard greens and some of the cooking broth into a freezer-safe container or bag. When thawed, the greens will retain their flavor and texture nicely, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the greens if needed. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. The greens taste fantastic warmed through with just a quick reheat.
FAQs
Can I use other types of greens in this Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe?
Absolutely! While collard greens are traditional, you can substitute kale, mustard greens, or turnip greens if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as those greens sometimes require less pressure cooking to become tender.
Is it necessary to use apple cider vinegar at the end?
Apple cider vinegar adds a vital tang that balances the smoky and savory flavors, but if you don’t have it on hand, a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar can work as a substitute. You could also omit it for a milder profile.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
The recipe as given is vegetarian and vegan-friendly since it uses vegetable broth and olive oil. If you want more depth, you might consider adding smoked paprika to mimic a smoky meat flavor without any animal products.
How do I adjust the spice level?
The crushed red pepper flakes provide optional heat, so simply leave them out for a milder dish or increase slightly if you want more kick. Black pepper adds subtle warmth that is generally mild enough for all palates.
Why is natural release important for this Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe?
Natural release allows the pressure to dissipate slowly, preventing the greens from becoming mushy or breaking apart. It also helps them retain their vibrant texture and ensures the flavors meld perfectly during that resting time.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe a try because it brings such a cozy and flavorful element to any meal effortlessly. The combination of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors with tender greens feels like catching up with an old friend. Plus, the convenience of the Instant Pot means you can enjoy these delightful collards any day of the week without the usual wait. Happy cooking and savor every bite!
Print
Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Instant Pot Collard Greens recipe offers a flavorful and easy way to enjoy tender collards cooked quickly under pressure. Aromatic sautéed onions and garlic combined with smoked paprika and a splash of apple cider vinegar create a deeply satisfying Southern-inspired side dish with a smoky and tangy profile, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Collard Greens
- 1 large bunch (about 12 oz), stems removed and chopped
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids & Oils
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, cook the chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent, then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Add the Greens and Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, then gradually stir in the chopped collard greens a handful at a time, allowing them to begin wilting slightly in the hot broth.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the greens and broth.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10 to 15 minutes to preserve the texture and flavor.
- Finish and Adjust Flavors: Carefully open the lid, stir in the apple cider vinegar to add brightness and a subtle tang, and taste the greens. Adjust seasoning if necessary with additional salt or pepper.
- Serve: Serve the collard greens hot, spooning some of the flavorful cooking broth over them for added moisture and taste.
Notes
- Removing the tough stems from collard greens helps them cook faster and become more tender.
- The natural pressure release allows the greens to finish cooking gently and absorb the flavors perfectly.
- Apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the dish and balances the smoky spices.
- For a non-vegetarian variation, you can substitute vegetable broth with smoked ham broth or add chopped smoked ham before pressure cooking.
- If you prefer spicier greens, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
