Collard Greens with White Beans

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Collard Greens - 500 grams (about 1 pound)
2. White Beans - 200 grams (cooked and drained weight)
3. Bacon Bits - 50 grams (or as per taste preference)
4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
5. Chicken Broth - 1 cup
6. Salt and Pepper - to taste
7. Fresh Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
8. Red Pepper Flakes - a dash or two (optional) for a spicy kick

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Prepare the white beans by cooking them in advance and draining the excess water. You can use canned white beans for convenience.
2. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil and add the bacon bits. Fry until slightly crispy.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for a minute or two until fragrant.
4. Throw in the collard greens and cook until they start to wilt.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and let it come to a boil. Then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked white beans and mix well. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors are well-combined and the greens are tender.
8. Serve hot with a side of your choice, such as mashed potatoes or roasted chicken.

Nutritional Information: (Please note that these are estimated values and may vary based on actual ingredients used.) Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (depending on the amount of bacon bits added) Carbohydrates: Fiber-rich green vegetables combined with the starch from white beans provide good carbs. Protein: Beans and greens are protein sources. Fat: The dish contains both healthy fats from olive oil and from bacon bits.

Dish Characteristics:

• A comforting blend of flavors, typical American taste profile with a hearty side dish combination of beans and greens.
• The dish offers a good balance of texture, flavor, and nutrition.
• Collard Greens are a great source of fiber, while white beans provide a rich, creamy texture.

User Comments:

1. "The combination of beans and greens was spot on! This dish was delicious."
2. "I love how easy it was to make this dish, yet it was so flavorful."
3. "The dish was hearty and filling, perfect for a cold winter night."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't eat bacon, you can skip it or replace it with vegan bacon bits for a similar flavor profile.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
• Collard Greens can be replaced with other green vegetables like kale or spinach if not available in your local supermarket.