Southern-style collard greens with smoked turkey

Southern-style collard greens with smoked turkey recipe videos

Southern-style collard greens with smoked turkey is a hearty, slow-simmered vegetable dish from the American South, where tender collard greens are cooked low and low with smoked turkey (often wings, legs, or ham hocks) for deep, savory flavor. The greens are typically seasoned with onions, garlic, vinegar, and sometimes a touch of sugar or red pepper flakes, resulting in a rich, slightly tangy pot liquor.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates and moderate in protein, thanks to the smoked turkey, while providing a good source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like calcium and iron. A typical serving (about 1 cup) ranges from 150–250 calories, depending on the amount of added fat or seasoning.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	180 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	10 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	680 mg
Vitamin A	580 mcg RAE
Vitamin C	35 mg
Vitamin K	450 mcg
Calcium	220 mg
Iron	2.2 mg
Potassium	380 mg
Magnesium	30 mg
Folate	110 mcg DFE

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, collard greens are a staple of African American and Southern U.S. cuisine, often associated with New Year's Day for good luck and prosperity. Nutritionally, the slow cooking process helps break down the tough greens, making nutrients more bioavailable, while the smoked turkey adds a distinctive umami depth without needing excessive salt.