Healthy Salad Greens Ranked From Best to Worst

 

7. Collard Greens Are a Good Source of Vitamin C

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Portion 1 cup chopped

Calories 12

Carbs 2 g

Fiber 1.4 g

Protein 1 g

Why They’re Healthy

Collard greens have all your daily vitamin K. They’re also a good source of vitamin C (14 percent of your DV) and have a small amount of vitamin E (an antioxidant), according to the USDA.

Meal Prep Inspo

“If you’re not used to preparing collard greens (they’re commonly consumed in the Southern United States), you’ll be surprised by how easy they are to cook,” says Kennedy. “Simply sauté them in olive oil, and allow them to simmer for about 45 minutes. Collard greens take longer to cook than other greens but are worth the wait! They taste great raw, too.”

8. Watercress Has Vitamin C and Vitamin K

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Portion 1 cup chopped

Calories 4

Carbs 0 g

Fiber 0.2 g

Protein 1 g

Why It’s Healthy

Popular in Europe, this salad green is often used in the United States as a mere garnish. But don’t underestimate the power of watercress in your diet. It’s more nutrient-rich than romaine and leaf lettuce; just 1 cup fulfills almost three-quarters of your daily value of vitamin K and is a good source of vitamin C — 16 percent of your daily requirement — according to the USDA.

Meal Prep Inspo

“Watercress makes a delicious addition to a salad, and if you love its peppery flavor, it can even be enjoyed alone with just a touch of oil and vinegar,” says Kennedy. “Watercress can also be pureed into a soup for an extra dose of flavor and nutrition.”