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Hardy Greens With Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant hardy greens with lemon-garlic vinaigrette is a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal, nutrient-dense leaves. By combining robust textures like collard greens, kale or beet tops with a zesty, citrus-forward dressing, the leaves soften slightly while retaining a satisfying crunch. The addition of honey balances the natural bitterness of the greens, creating a sophisticated flavour profile that feels both fresh and nourishing.

As a versatile vegan side dish, this salad pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables or protein-rich grains. The dried cranberries provide little bursts of sweetness and a festive touch of colour, making it a great choice for a healthy midweek lunch or a dinner party accompaniment. It is a brilliant recipe for those looking to incorporate more leafy greens into their diet in an easy, delicious way.

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Ingredients for Hardy Greens With Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette

  • 2 garlic cloves, finely grated

  • 120ml olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest

  • 80ml fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 4 cups torn collard greens

  • 4 cups torn turnip greens, beet greens, and/or kale

  • 3/4 cup dried cranberries, divided

How to make Hardy Greens With Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette

Whisk garlic, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and honey in a large bowl; season vinaigrette with salt and pepper.

Add collard greens and turnip greens to vinaigrette and toss to coat. Add half of cranberries, season with salt and pepper, and toss again to combine.

Top salad with remaining cranberries just before serving.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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