Spicy Garlic Stir-Fried Collard Greens

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-09 · Updated 2026-07-09

Quick stir-fried collard greens with garlic, chili flakes, and soy sauce for a vibrant and spicy side dish. This Asian Fusion-inspired stir-fry recipe (vegan), ready in about 20 minutes, pairs collard greens, garlic cloves, red chili flakes for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 90 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 lb, stems removed and leaves sliced into 1-inch strips collard greens
• 5 cloves, thinly sliced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp red chili flakes
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add 5 thinly sliced garlic cloves and 1 tsp red chili flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
2. Step 2: Add 1 lb collard greens (stems removed, leaves sliced into 1-inch strips) to the wok. Stir quickly to coat with oil and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until greens begin to wilt.
3. Step 3: Pour in 1/4 cup water and 2 tbsp soy sauce, stir well, then cover with a lid. Let steam for 3 minutes until the greens are tender but still bright green.
4. Step 4: Remove the lid, drizzle 1 tbsp sesame oil, sprinkle 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss to combine and cook uncovered for 1 more minute until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the greens.