Looking for a healthy and delicious recipe? Try this Mixed Greens Recipe! Greens are a staple in Southern cooking. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or cooking for just your family, greens are a delicious way to add some nutrition to your meal. I love this Southern mixed greens recipe, and I know you will, too! Whether you're looking for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying dinner, this Mixed Greens Recipe is perfect for any occasion. So why wait? Try this delicious Mixed Greens Recipe today and enjoy all the benefits of a healthy, balanced meal!

Table of Contents
Equipment Needed To Make Mixed Greens Recipe:
- Colander - You may want to use a colander to rinse your greens, but it’s not necessary.
- Large pot - Remember, you will be boiling water for this recipe, so you’ll need extra room in your pot.
Ingredients Needed To Make Mixed Greens Recipe
- Turnip greens
- Collard greens
- Mustard greens
- Ham hocks
- Water
- White vinegar
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
Top Tips
It is imperative that you rinse your greens, especially if you’ve harvested them yourself or purchased them locally. Soaking them in vinegar will remove any dirt or unwanted organisms and strip any chemicals from the vegetables.

What to Serve with Your Southern Greens
Southern mixed greens recipe pair perfectly with so many foods. Here are some of my favorites to serve them with:
Sides
- 2-in1-Mac and cheese - Mac and cheese is a classic Southern side, and this baked version will taste delicious alongside some freshly cooked greens.
- Black eyed peas - Make a full meal and add a little protein with some black eyed peas. This is a great option if you’re a vegetarian.
- Candied yams - Candied yams aren’t just meant for Thanksgiving! This tasty recipe should be made year-round, especially when you’re cooking Southern greens.
Entrees
- Baked chicken legs - Chicken is always better with a side of greens, and these chicken legs are full of flavor thanks to the spicy honey garlic sauce.
- Pork chops - Pan-fried pork chops are perfectly balanced with a side of greens, and this recipe is easy to whip up on a weeknight.
- Fried chicken - For the ultimate Southern meal, fry up some chicken. This recipe will give you the crispiest, juiciest bite ever.
Variations of Mixed Greens Recipe
- Spices - One of the best ways to variate this recipe is by changing the spices you use, especially if you make it often. You can add cumin or paprika for some extra heat, or you can change the blend you use entirely.
- Greens - If there is a green included in this recipe you don’t like, feel free to omit it from the recipe. Similarly, if there is a green missing, feel free to add it. Most greens cook at about the same pace, so you shouldn’t have to adjust the cook time.
FAQ
Can I freeze this recipe?
You can freeze greens, but it’s best to do so before they’re cooked.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last several days.
How should I reheat?
You can reheat your greens a couple of ways. Of course, you can always use the microwave, but they’ll taste even better if you reheat them on the stovetop or in the oven. Pay close attention if you use those methods, though, as you may need to add more moisture.
Food Safety
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.
CHECK OUT MORE RECIPES:
- EASY CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA RECIPE
- Easy Baked Chicken with Spicy Honey Garlic Sauce
- CAJUN SMOKED TURKEY RECIPE WITH CREOLE BUTTER SAUCE INJECTION
- EASY CAJUN SHRIMP AND PASTA WITH CREAMY CAJUN SAUCE RECIPE
- EASY PEACH COBBLER WITH BATTER AND PIE CRUST RECIPE
Southern Mixed Greens Recipe (Collard, Turnip, Mustard)
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
1 bunch turnip greens
1 bunch collard greens
2 bunches mustard greens
2 ham hocks
2 cups water
1 cup white vinegar (divided in half)
2 tsp onion powder
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
-
Clean greens well. Your pot of greens will be gritty and dirty otherwise.
- To clean them:
In a clean sink, fill with cold water and add ½ cup vinegar.
Add greens and move them around with your hands to loosen dirt.
Let soak for 15 minutes. Dirt will settle to the bottom of the sink.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water and dry with paper towels.
-
Remove stems by cutting or tearing them.
-
Stack greens and roll them up.
-
Cut into strips aka chiffonade
-
In a large pot, add 2 cups water, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and ½ cup vinegar.
-
Add greens and ham hocks.
-
Cover and bring to a boil. Then, lower heat to medium.
-
Mix greens to rotate periodically while cooking.
-
Cook for 1 hour until greens are tender.
Keywords: mixed greens recipe, southern mixed greens, collard greens, turnip greens, mustard greens