How to Make Canned Glory Greens Taste Better: From Canned to Crave-Worthy

This post’ll explore the top tips and tricks for taking canned Glory Greens from bland to grand.

Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior, a meal prep master, or a lover of all things green, you’ll find inspiration and ideas to elevate this pantry staple into a culinary superstar.

So, let’s get started and discover how to make canned Glory Greens taste better—and become the heroes of your mealtime routine!

How to Make Canned Glory Greens Taste Better: A Quick Overview

• Add aromatics: Saute onions, garlic, and/or shallots before adding the canned greens to bring out their natural sweetness.
• Spice it up: To give your greens a flavor boost, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a sprinkle of paprika, or a dash of cumin.
• Acidity helps: Squeeze a sliver of fresh lemon juice or add a splash of vinegar (apple cider or balsamic work well) to balance the flavors.
• Umami power: Add a teaspoon of soy sauce, miso paste, or mushroom broth to deepen the flavor profile.
• Remember the fat: To enrich the dish, add a pat of butter, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits.
• Mix and match: Combine canned greens with diced tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, or cooked beans to create a flavorful medley.
• Try different cooking liquids: Instead of using plain water, try cooking the greens in chicken or beef broth or even beer for added depth of flavor.
• Add some heat: If you like a little kick, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to give your greens a spicy kick.
• Get creative with herbs: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to give your greens a fresh, bright flavor.
• Experiment with marinades: For added flavor, marinate the greens in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking.

Rinse and Refresh: The Power of a Good Rinse

Why rinse canned greens?

1. Remove excess sodium: Canned greens are often packed in salty liquid to preserve them. Rinsing helps remove some excess sodium, making the greens a healthier option.
2. Reduce bitterness: Rinsing can help remove some bitter compounds that can make canned greens unpalatable.
3. Improve texture: Rinsing can help remove excess moisture, making the greens less soggy and more palatable.

How to rinse canned greens

1. Drain and rinse: Drain the liquid from the can and rinse the greens under cold running water.
2. Soak and rinse: Soak the greens in cold water for about 30 minutes, then drain and rinse again.
3. Use a fine-mesh strainer: Rinse the greens in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water to remove excess moisture.

Tips and Variations

• Add a splash of vinegar: Mix a tablespoon of vinegar (apple cider or white wine work well) with the rinse water to help remove excess sodium and bitterness.
• Use a flavorful liquid: Rinse the greens in a flavorful liquid like chicken or vegetable broth, or even beer, to add extra flavor.
• Add aromatics: Add sliced onions, garlic, or shallots to the rinse water for added flavor.

Spice It Up: Adding Aromatics and Herbs for Flavor

The magic of aromatics and herbs! Adding these flavor powerhouses to your canned Glory Greens can elevate them from bland to grand. Let’s dive into the world of aromatics and herbs to discover how to spice up your greens:

Aromatics: The Flavor Foundation

Aromatics are the holy trinity of flavor: onions, garlic, and shallots. These three amigos add depth, sweetness, and a punch of flavor to your greens. Here’s how to use them:

1. Saute onions: Soften sliced or diced onions in a bit of oil until they’re translucent and caramelized.
2. Mince garlic: Add minced garlic to the pan with the onions and sauté for an additional minute.
3. Shallots, the sweet addition: Sauté sliced or diced shallots with the onions and garlic for added sweetness.

Herbs: The Flavor Boosters

Herbs can add freshness, brightness, and complexity to your greens. Choose one or combine a few to create a unique flavor profile:

1. Classic choices: Parsley, thyme, and rosemary are traditional pairings with greens.
2. Fresh and bright: Basil, cilantro, or dill add a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
3. Savory and earthy: Oregano, sage, or bay leaves bring a savory, earthy flavor.

Tips for Adding Aromatics and Herbs

1. Soften aromatics: Sauté aromatics until they’re soft and fragrant to bring out their natural sweetness.
2. Use fresh or dried herbs: Fresh herbs add a bright, fresh flavor, while dried herbs provide a more subtle, earthy flavor.
3. Add herbs at the right time: Add fresh herbs towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and aroma. Add dried herbs earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to meld.
4. Experiment with herb combinations: Mix and match herbs to create unique flavor profiles.

Putting it all together

1. Sauté aromatics (onions, garlic, shallots) in a bit of oil until softened.
2. Add canned Glory Greens, herbs, and any additional spices or seasonings.
3. Cook until the greens are heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Acidity Adjustment: How a Squeeze of Lemon Can Make a Difference

The Power of Acidity

Acidity helps to:

1. Balance flavors: Acidity cuts through richness and balances the flavors in your dish.
2. Brighten flavors: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten and enhance the natural flavors of the greens.
3. Enhance texture: Acidity can help to break down the cell walls of the greens, making them more tender and palatable.

How to Add Acidity

1. Lemon juice: Squeeze a sliver of fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 tablespoons) over the greens during the last minute of cooking.
2. Vinegar: Add a splash of vinegar (apple cider, balsamic, or white wine work well) to the greens during cooking.
3. Citrus zest: Grate some citrus zest (lemon, orange, or lime) over the greens for added brightness and flavor.

Tips and Variations

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with a small amount of acidity and adjust to taste.
2. Combine with aromatics: Saute aromatics like garlic and onions before adding the greens and acidity for added depth of flavor.
3. Experiment with different acids: Try using different types of vinegar, citrus juices, or even yogurt or sour cream for added tanginess.

Putting it all together

1. Sauté aromatics (onions, garlic, shallots) in a bit of oil until softened.
2. Add canned Glory Greens, a squeeze of lemon juice (or vinegar), and any additional spices or seasonings.
3. Cook until the greens are heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Umami Boost: The Magic of Mushrooms and Soy Sauce

Mushroom Magic

Mushrooms are a great source of umami flavor. They add a meaty, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with greens. Here’s how to incorporate mushrooms into your dish:

1. Sauteed mushrooms: Sauté sliced or chopped mushrooms with aromatics like onions and garlic to bring out their natural umami flavor.
2. Mushroom broth: Use mushroom broth instead of water or chicken broth to add an intense umami flavor to your greens.
3. Dried mushrooms: Reconstitute dried mushrooms like shiitake or porcini in hot water or broth to add a rich, umami flavor.

Soy Sauce: The Umami Boost

Soy sauce is a concentrated source of umami flavor. It’s made from fermented soybeans and adds a savory, meaty flavor to your greens. Here’s how to use soy sauce:

1. Add a splash: Add a small amount of soy sauce (about 1-2 tablespoons) to the greens during the last minute of cooking.
2. Marinate: Marinate the greens in a mixture of soy sauce, olive oil, and aromatics like garlic and ginger for added flavor.
3. Umami-rich sauces: Use soy sauce as a base for sauces like teriyaki or stir-fry sauce to add an intense umami flavor.

Tips and Variations

1. Combine mushrooms and soy sauce: Saute mushrooms in soy sauce and aromatics for an intense umami flavor.
2. Experiment with different mushrooms: Try using different types of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms for varying levels of umami flavor.
3. Add umami-rich ingredients: Incorporate other umami-rich ingredients like miso paste, fish sauce, or Parmesan cheese to add depth and complexity to your dish.

Putting it all together

1. Sauté aromatics (onions, garlic, shallots) in a bit of oil until softened.
2. Add sliced or chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add canned Glory Greens, soy sauce (or mushroom broth), and any additional spices or seasonings.
4. Cook until the greens are heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Heat It: How to Add Smoky Flavor with Spicy Peppers

Spicy Peppers: The Heat Makers

Spicy peppers like jalapeños, serranos, or habaneros add a intense, fiery heat to your dish. Here’s how to incorporate them into your recipe:

1. Dice and sauté: Dice the peppers and sauté them with aromatics like onions and garlic to bring out their natural heat.
2. Add to the pot: Add diced peppers to the pot during the last minute of cooking to infuse the greens with heat.
3. Make a spicy sauce: Blend cooked peppers with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice to create a spicy sauce to drizzle over the greens.

Smoky Flavor: The Magic of Chipotle Peppers

Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to your dish. Here’s how to use them:

1. Add to the pot: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the pot during the last minute of cooking to infuse the greens with a smoky flavor.
2. Make a smoky sauce: Blend cooked chipotle peppers with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice to create a smoky sauce to drizzle over the greens.

Tips and Variations

1. Adjust the heat level: Use more or fewer peppers to adjust the heat level to your taste.
2. Combine heat and umami: Combine spicy peppers with umami-rich ingredients like mushrooms and soy sauce for a deep, savory flavor.
3. Experiment with different peppers: Try using different types of peppers like Anaheim, Poblano, or Ghost Peppers for varying levels of heat and flavor.

Putting it all together

1. Sauté aromatics (onions, garlic, shallots) in a bit of oil until softened.
2. Add diced spicy peppers and cook until they start to soften.
3. Add canned Glory Greens, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (if using), and any additional spices or seasonings.
4. Cook until the greens are heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Get Saucy: Elevating Canned Greens with Flavorful Sauces

The Magic of Sauces

Sauces can add flavor, moisture, and texture to your canned greens. Here are some popular sauce options:

1. Garlic Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Brush over the greens during the last minute of cooking.
2. Lemon-Herb: Combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Drizzle over the greens before serving.
3. Sriracha Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha sauce and a squeeze of lemon juice. Add a spicy kick to your greens.
4. Balsamic Glaze: Reduce balsamic vinegar on the stovetop until thick and syrupy. Brush over the greens during the last minute of cooking.
5. Teriyaki: Whisk together soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. Brush over the greens during the last minute of cooking.

Tips and Variations

1. Experiment with flavors: Try different combinations of herbs, spices, and acids to create unique sauces.
2. Add umami flavor: Incorporate umami-rich ingredients like mushrooms, soy sauce, or miso paste into your sauces.
3. Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to your sauces for an extra kick.
4. Get creamy: Add sour cream, Greek yogurt, or mayonnaise to your sauces for a rich and creamy texture.

Putting it all together

1. Sauté aromatics (onions, garlic, shallots) in a bit of oil until softened.
2. Add canned Glory Greens and cook until heated through.
3. Brush with your chosen sauce during the last minute of cooking.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Protein Power: Adding Texture and Flavor with Nuts, Seeds, or Meat

Nuts and Seeds: Crunchy Texture and Nutty Flavor

Nuts and seeds add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to your greens. Here are some popular options:

1. Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add a rich, earthy flavor and a satisfying crunch.
2. Pumpkin seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds provide a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch.
3. Almonds: Sliced or slivered almonds add a delicate crunch and a touch of sweetness.

Meat: Adding Hearty Flavor and Texture

Meat can add a rich, savory flavor and a satisfying texture to your greens. Here are some popular options:

1. Bacon: Crumbled or diced bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor and a satisfying crunch.
2. Chicken: Diced or shredded chicken breast adds lean protein and a tender texture.
3. Sausage: Spicy sausage like chorizo or Italian sausage adds a bold, meaty flavor.

Tips and Variations

1. Toast nuts and seeds: Toasting nuts and seeds enhances their flavor and texture.
2. Spice up your meat: Add spices and herbs to your meat for added flavor.
3. Mix and match: Combine nuts, seeds, and meat for a satisfying texture and flavor.

Putting it all together

1. Sauté aromatics (onions, garlic, shallots) in a bit of oil until softened.
2. Add canned Glory Greens and cook until heated through.
3. Add your chosen nuts, seeds, or meat and cook until heated through.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Greens and Grains: How Whole Grains Can Enhance Flavor and Texture

The Power of Whole Grains

Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and farro add fibre, texture, and nutty flavour to your greens. Here are some popular options:

1. Brown rice: Cooked brown rice adds a nutty flavour and a satisfying chew.
2. Quinoa: Cooked quinoa provides a complete protein and a delicate, nutty flavour.
3. Farro: Cooked farro adds a nutty flavour and a satisfying chew.

Tips and Variations:

1. Mix and match: Combine different whole grains for a unique flavour and texture.
2. Add aromatics: Saute onions, garlic, and herbs with whole grains for added flavour.
3. Spice it up: Add spices and herbs to the whole grains for flavour.

Greens and Grains Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, or farro)
• 1 can Glory Greens
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: nuts, seeds, or meat for added protein and flavour

Instructions:

1. Cook the whole grains according to package instructions.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the canned Glory Greens and cook until heated through.
4. Combine the cooked whole grains and greens mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs.
6. Serve hot, garnished with nuts, seeds, or meat for added protein and flavour.

The Finishing Touches: Adding Fresh Herbs and Cheese for a Pop of Flavor

Fresh Herbs: A Bright and Refreshing Flavor

Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and cilantro add a bright, refreshing flavour to your greens. Here’s how to incorporate them:

1. Chop fresh herbs: Chop fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro and sprinkle over the greens.
2. Add to the pot: Add fresh herbs to the pot during the last minute of cooking for added flavour.
3. Make a herb sauce: Blend fresh herbs with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a tasty sauce.

Cheese: A Rich and Creamy Flavor

Cheese like parmesan, feta, or goat cheese adds a rich and creamy flavor to your greens. Here’s how to incorporate it:

1. Sprinkle grated cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese over the greens for a salty, savory flavor.
2. Add to the pot: Add crumbled or grated cheese to the pot during the last minute of cooking for added flavor.
3. Make a cheese sauce: Blend cheese with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a creamy sauce.

Tips and Variations:

1. Mix and match: Combine different fresh herbs and cheese for a unique flavor profile.
2. Add a squeeze of lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
3. Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of paprika for added depth.

Putting it all together

1. Sauté aromatics (onions, garlic, shallots) in a bit of oil until softened.
2. Add canned Glory Greens and cook until heated through.
3. Add fresh herbs and cheese to taste.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs and cheese if desired.

FAQs

Q: What are canned Glory Greens?
A: Canned Glory Greens are a type of canned vegetable product made from a blend of leafy greens, such as kale, spinach, and collard greens.

Q: How do I cook canned Glory Greens?
A: Simply sauté the greens in a pan with some oil and aromatics like onions and garlic, then season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs.

Q: Can I add flavor to canned Glory Greens?
A: Yes! You can add flavor to canned Glory Greens by incorporating aromatics like onions and garlic, spices and herbs, nuts and seeds, meat or protein, and fresh herbs and cheese.

Q: Are canned Glory Greens healthy?
A: Yes, canned Glory Greens are a nutritious and convenient way to add leafy greens to your diet. They are low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Q: Can I use canned Glory Greens in recipes?
A: Yes! Canned Glory Greens can be used in a variety of recipes, such as soups, stews, casseroles, and sautéed dishes. They can also be used as a side dish or added to salads and sandwiches.

Q: How long do canned Glory Greens last?
A: Canned Glory Greens have a long shelf life and can be stored for up to 2-3 years in a cool, dry place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.