A long cooking time for collard greens is a southern tradition. We sliver ours, then sauté them only for 1 minute, which renders them crisp-tender but allows the greens to keep their color and full flavor.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 8 servings

　　3 pound collard greens, leaves halved lengthwise and stems and center ribs discarded

　　2 tablespoons vegetable oil

　　

Step 1

Stack several collard leaf halves and roll up tightly into a cigar shape. Cut crosswise into very thin slices (no wider than 1/8 inch). Roll and slice remaining leaves in same manner.

　　

Step 2

Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté collards, tossing with tongs, just until bright green, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper.

　　Cooks' note:

　　Collards can be thinly sliced 6 hours ahead and chilled in a sealed plastic bag.