6 Side Dishes for Collard Greens to Make Your Meal Unforgettable

Imagine sitting down to a hearty plate of collard greens with ham hocks, the quintessential comfort food that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. To elevate this Southern classic, pairing it with the right side dishes can transform your meal from good to unforgettable.

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Classic Southern Sides

When it comes to perfecting the experience of savoring collard greens with ham hocks, the right side dishes are crucial. Here are some classic Southern sides that deliver both taste and tradition.

Cornbread: A Southern Staple

Cornbread isn’t just a side; it’s a Southern tradition. Its sweet, buttery flavor harmoniously complements the salty, smoky taste of ham hocks and the earthiness of collard greens. Typically made from cornmeal, butter, sugar, and milk, this bread offers a delightful contrast in texture, from its crispy edges to its soft, fluffy center. Serve it warm for the best experience, and consider adding a bit of honey or jalapeños to the mix for extra zest or a spicy kick.

Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy Comfort

No Southern meal feels complete without a generous serving of macaroni and cheese. This creamy concoction, made with a rich blend of cheeses, usually cheddar, mixed into perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, provides a comforting balance to the robust flavors of your collard greens. For an extra touch of Southern authenticity, bake it until the top layer turns golden and crusty, creating a perfect textural contrast to the creamy underneath.

Vegetarian Options

Looking for delightful vegetarian sides to complement your collard greens with ham hocks? Here are a couple of choices that are not only delicious but also add a refreshing contrast to your meal.

Braised Red Cabbage: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Transform simple red cabbage into a flavorful masterpiece. Braised slowly with apple slices and a dash of vinegar, this side dish offers a sweet and tangy profile. It’s perfect for balancing the hearty and smoky flavors of collard greens and ham hocks. Go ahead, and add a hint of cinnamon for a unique twist!

Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A Crispy Addition

Crank up your oven and get ready for some crispy magic! Toss Brussels sprouts with plenty of minced garlic and olive oil, then roast them until golden. They’ll emerge crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making a fantastic textural contrast to your collard greens. Sprinkle with a little Parmesan cheese moments before serving to elevate this dish.

Starch-Based Sides

After exploring classic Southern and vegetarian options, let’s dive into some delicious starch-based sides that pair wonderfully with collard greens and ham hocks.

Sweet Potato Casserole: A Sweet Contrast

Choose a sweet potato casserole to balance the savory richness of your collard greens with ham hocks. This dish, often topped with a crunchy layer of pecans and marshmallows, introduces a delightful sweetness that contrasts with the smoky meat. It’s not just tasty; it’s also packed with vitamins, making it a nutritious choice.

Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Simple and Savory

Opt for buttery mashed potatoes if you’re looking for a simple yet savory side. These creamy potatoes meld seamlessly with the flavors of your main dish, enhancing each bite. To elevate this side, consider adding a hint of garlic or a sprinkle of fresh chives, which will enrich the overall taste experience without overpowering the main ingredients.

Light and Healthy Choices

After indulging in hearty staples, lighten your meal with these nutritious sides. They’re not only flavorful but also offer a perfect balance to the richness of collard greens and ham hocks.

Apple Cider Vinegar Coleslaw: A Refreshing Crunch

Opt for Apple Cider Vinegar Coleslaw to add a zesty, tangy twist to your meal. This coleslaw combines shredded cabbage and carrots, dressed in a light mixture of apple cider vinegar, a hint of honey, and mustard seeds. It’s low in calories and provides a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the smoky, tender flavors of the ham hocks.

Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing: A Protein-Packed Option

Incorporate a healthy grain like quinoa to boost the protein content of your meal. This Quinoa Salad is tossed with chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and parsley, all drizzled with a vibrant lemon dressing. It’s an excellent source of fiber and protein, making it a filling yet light side dish that complements the deep, earthy tones of your collard greens.

Unique Pairings

Opt for dishes that transform the traditional collard greens with ham hocks into an unforgettable meal with these unique pairings.

Fried Green Tomatoes: A Crispy Southern Classic

Pair your collard greens with fried green tomatoes to add a crunchy texture to your meal. The slight tartness of green tomatoes coated with a crispy cornmeal crust complements the smoky and savory flavors of ham hocks beautifully. Serve them hot, garnished with a sprinkle of coarse salt and a side of rémoulade sauce for dipping.

Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread: A Spicy Twist on a Classic

Elevate your rustic Southern meal by serving Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread alongside your collard greens. The sharpness of cheddar and the heat from the jalapeños introduce a delightful kick that cuts through the richness of the ham hocks. Bake it until golden brown for a perfect, crumbly texture that’s irresistibly good.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some classic side dishes to serve with collard greens and ham hocks?

Collard greens and ham hocks pair wonderfully with Southern classics such as cornbread, macaroni, and cheese, and braised red cabbage. These dishes complement the savory flavors of the collard greens, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Can you recommend vegetarian options to accompany collard greens and ham hocks?

For a vegetarian-friendly approach, consider sides like garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts or a sweet potato casserole. These options offer a delightful contrast in flavors and textures, suitable for diverse dietary preferences.

What are some starch-based sides that go well with collard greens?

Starch-based sides like buttery mashed potatoes and sweet potato casserole are excellent choices. They help balance the hearty and flavorful profile of collard greens and ham hocks, making for a satisfying meal.

How can I add a healthy twist to a meal with collard greens and ham hocks?

Incorporate light and healthy options such as Apple Cider Vinegar Coleslaw or Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing. These dishes add freshness and a light touch to the meal, perfectly balancing the richer main dish.

What unique pairings can elevate the traditional collard greens and ham hocks dish?

Consider adding unique sides like Fried Green Tomatoes for a crunchy texture or Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread for a spicy kick. These innovative pairings transform the traditional meal into an unforgettable dining experience with varied tastes and textures.