Collard Green Rice Pilaf

By Dani Potts | March 3, 2025

INGREDIENTS (Makes 6 – 8  Servings)

  • 4 tbsp oil
  • 2 cups rice, rinsed
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed 
  • 3 cups vegetable stock
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup collard greens, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring occasionally, until it smells nutty, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the stock, a pinch of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a separate pot, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until just tender and beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the lentils and the amount of water or broth needed according to the package instructions. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the lentils are tender, about 15–20 minutes. If needed, drain any excess liquid.
  • In the last 5 minutes of the rice cooking, add the collard greens and bell pepper to the rice. Stir occasionally until the greens have wilted and the peppers have softened.
  • Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat. Gently fold in the lentil and onion mixture. Fluff everything with a fork to combine. Serve warm. fold in the cooked lentils and fluff everything with a fork to combine. Serve warm and enjoy!

BENEFITS

Collard greens, a key part of Gullah-Geechee cuisine, are loaded with health benefits. They’re rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and may support lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. These leafy greens also promote better blood flow by helping blood vessels relax. With plenty of fiber, protein, calcium, and potassium—all while being low in calories—collard greens are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.