When it comes to turnip greens, Southerners know a thing or two about cooking up a delicious mess. These nutritious and versatile greens are a staple in many a Southern household, and for good reason – they’re packed with vitamins A, K, and calcium, making them a superfood in their own right. But let’s be real: turnip greens can be a bit of an acquired taste, especially if you’re not used to their slightly bitter flavor profile.
That’s where we come in! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering turnip green recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. From classic Southern dishes like braised turnip greens with bacon to more innovative creations like vegan turnip greens with coconut milk and ginger, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a pot of coffee (or sweet tea, if you’re feeling extra Southern), get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of turnip green magic!
Southern-style braised turnip greens with bacon
A classic Southern side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this braised turnip greens recipe is a hearty and flavorful combination of wilted greens, crispy bacon, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh turnip greens, chopped
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped turnip greens to the skillet in batches, cooking until wilted and tender.
5. Stir in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the greens have reached your desired level of tenderness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy turnip greens with garlic and red pepper flakes
This recipe adds a bold kick to the humble turnip green, perfect for those who like a little heat. The combination of garlic, red pepper flakes, and tangy greens is sure to please even the most adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens (about 4 cups)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the turnip greens and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the turnip greens to the skillet in batches, cooking until wilted (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-cooked turnip greens with smoked turkey
This hearty side dish combines the natural sweetness of turnip greens with the rich, smoky flavor of turkey for a comforting and flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen turnip greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded or diced smoked turkey (such as andouille sausage)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chicken broth, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chopped turnip greens and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
7. Stir in the shredded or diced smoked turkey and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegan turnip greens with coconut milk and ginger
This recipe transforms turnip greens into a creamy and aromatic delight, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish. The coconut milk adds richness and the ginger provides a warm and comforting flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens, washed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ginger and turnip greens; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the greens are tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Turnip greens and ham hock soup
Warm up with this hearty and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of turnip greens with the smoky flavor of ham hocks. This classic Southern recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh turnip greens, chopped
– 1 ham hock (about 1 pound), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ham hock and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, turnip greens, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
5. Remove the ham hock and chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the chopped ham to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turnip greens sautéed with onions and apple cider vinegar
This recipe brings together the earthy sweetness of turnip greens and the pungency of apple cider vinegar, perfectly balanced by caramelized onions. A simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens (about 2 cups)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the turnip greens to the skillet in batches, if necessary, allowing them to wilt slightly before adding more.
4. Cook the greens for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp.
5. Stir in apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turnip greens stir-fry with sesame oil and soy sauce
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy turnip greens, with the added depth of sesame oil and soy sauce. The result is a deliciously savory and slightly sweet stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens, washed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the turnip greens and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to wilt.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute, until the greens are tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turnip greens and black-eyed peas stew
This comforting stew combines the earthy flavor of turnip greens with the creamy sweetness of black-eyed peas, making it a perfect meal for a chilly day. With its rich flavors and tender textures, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens (about 4 cups), stems removed
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the turnip greens and stir to wilt; then add the soaked black-eyed peas and vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy turnip greens with white beans and Parmesan
A hearty and comforting side dish that combines the sweetness of turnip greens with the creaminess of white beans and the salty flavor of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh turnip greens, washed and chopped
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped turnip greens and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked cannellini beans, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turnip greens and cornbread casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the earthy sweetness of turnip greens with the warm, crumbly goodness of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens, chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped turnip greens and a pinch of salt until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, milk, melted butter, and egg.
4. Add cornmeal and baking soda to the mixture; stir until combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer turnip greens in the prepared dish, followed by the cornbread mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pickled turnip greens with jalapeños and carrots
This recipe adds a kick to the classic turnip green dish by incorporating spicy jalapeños and crunchy carrots. The result is a tangy and refreshing side that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens, cleaned and chopped
– 2 medium-sized jalapeños, sliced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the chopped turnip greens, sliced jalapeños, and grated carrots to a boil in salted water.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the greens are tender.
3. Drain the mixture and combine with vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir well.
4. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Turnip greens and sausage skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the earthy flavor of turnip greens with the richness of sausage, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover sausages and turnip greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens, chopped
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the turnip greens to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cooked sausage back into the skillet.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turnip greens with caramelized onions and balsamic glaze
Transform humble turnip greens into a show-stopping side dish by pairing them with sweet caramelized onions and tangy balsamic glaze. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens, chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (see note)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
2. Add the chopped turnip greens, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the greens are tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze and honey. Pour the glaze over the turnip greens mixture and stir to combine.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turnip greens and sweet potato hash
This hearty hash combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the tangy freshness of sautéed turnip greens. Perfect as a side dish or a filling breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 bunch of turnip greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chopped turnip greens to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar (if using).
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes and sautéed turnip greens in a bowl. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turnip greens and shrimp gumbo
This hearty and flavorful gumbo combines the earthy sweetness of turnip greens with succulent shrimp, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens, chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Filé powder, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, cumin, paprika, and cayenne; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add turnip greens, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until greens are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with filé powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turnip greens with crispy fried onions
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Southern comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch turnip greens, washed and chopped
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 10-12 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. While the onions are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the turnip greens for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then shock in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
4. Drain the turnip greens and squeeze out excess water.
5. Add the cooked turnip greens to the skillet with the crispy onions. Season with salt, black pepper, and chicken broth (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turnip greens and white bean chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the earthy sweetness of turnip greens with the comforting warmth of white beans, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups turnip greens, chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the soaked navy beans, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped turnip greens and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the greens have wilted slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Turnip greens and mushroom pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the earthy flavors of turnip greens with the richness of sautéed mushrooms, all wrapped up in a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups turnip greens, chopped
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add turnip greens and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-turnip green mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Turnip greens with roasted garlic and lemon
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of turnip greens with the pungency of roasted garlic and a squeeze of bright lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups turnip greens, washed and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a sheet of aluminum foil, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Fold the foil into a packet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped turnip greens and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted and tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the roasted garlic to the skillet with the turnip greens and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the broth and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Turnip greens and goat cheese tart
A flavorful and savory tart that combines the earthy sweetness of turnip greens with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and refreshing dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package turnip greens (about 4 cups)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pie crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add turnip greens to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Arrange cooked turnip greens in the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
7. Brush the edges of the pie crust with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Southern-style turnip greens recipes! From classic braised dishes to spicy stir-fries, this collection offers something for every taste. Try Southern-style braised turnip greens with crispy bacon, or spice up your day with garlic and red pepper flakes. Slow-cooked options like smoked turkey and vegan choices like coconut milk and ginger ensure there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer comforting soups, savory sautés, or bold skillet dishes, these 20 recipes will have you enjoying the best of turnip greens in no time!
