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Keto Side Dishes

Southern Style Holiday Greens

Growing up, the scent of simmered greens meant holiday meals and family gathered around the table. I’ve kept that tradition alive by adapting it for keto, letting the smoky bacon and tangy pickle juice work their magic without any carb-heavy add-ins.

15 min Prep time 50 min Cook time 65 min Total time 4 Servings 350 Calories
Southern Style Holiday Greens

Ingredients

  • bunches fresh mustard greens
  • bunches fresh turnip greens
  • /4 cup butter
  • /2 cup dill pickle juice
  • slices bacon
  • /3 cup sliced onion
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Start by giving the mustard and turnip greens a good rinse under cold water to wash away any hidden grit. I like to soak them for a few minutes, then lift them out, leaving the dirt behind. Tear the leaves into manageable pieces if they’re large. In a 12-quart pot, combine 8 cups of water, butter, pickle juice, bacon, and sliced onion. Bring everything to a rolling boil over high heat. Once it’s bubbling fiercely, add the greens in batches, pressing them down as they wilt. Boil uncovered for 20 minutes, letting the liquid reduce slightly. Then lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and let the pot work its magic for another 30 minutes. The greens should become tender and soak up all that smoky, tangy broth. Taste and add salt and pepper—often the pickle juice and bacon already provide plenty of seasoning. Serve warm with a slotted spoon.

Chef's Tip

I always save a splash of the pot liquid to moisten leftovers without making them soggy. The broth concentrates the flavors and keeps everything luscious when reheated.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate cooled greens in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a tablespoon of reserved broth to revive the texture.

Variation Tips

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the simmer. You can also swap the bacon for smoked turkey wings or ham hocks if you prefer a different smoky profile.

Frequently Asked Questions