Greens

Often referred to in the South as “a mess of greens,” the earthy, soul-satisfying, slightly bitter taste of mustard and turnip greens, collards, kale, and Swiss chard is a favorite that appears on Southern tables with great regularity. Served on New Year’s Day with black-eyed peas and ham, they symbolize good luck and monetary gain. More contemporary uses call for greens in pastas and in pizzas with herbs and sausage, or with black-eyed peas and tomatoes in comforting winter soups. Nutritionally, greens are very high in vitamin A, calcium, and potassium, and they are very low in calories.