Collard greens for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve collard greens to your baby, by age.

High in Vitamin AIron-RichHigh in Vitamin CFiber-RichCalcium SourceImmune-SupportiveEasy to Digest

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very Low (1/5)

Choking Hazard

Low (2/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Collard greens to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

For babies 6-9 months, collard greens should always be served cooked until very soft. Remove thick stems and finely chop or shred the leaves before steaming, boiling, or slow-cooking until easily mashed between your fingers. Puree with water, breast milk, or formula for a smooth texture, or mash thoroughly. Collard greens can be mixed into other pureed veggies or soft grains for better nutrition and taste. Avoid raw or undercooked leaves at this age, as they can be challenging to gum and swallow safely.

Serving Instructions

Offer 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of well-cooked, pureed or mashed collard greens, mixed with breast milk, formula, or water, as part of a meal that includes a source of iron (like meat or lentils), a healthy fat (such as avocado or olive oil), and a starchy vegetable or grain. Collard greens provide fiber and vitamins, but combining them with foods rich in vitamin C—like bell peppers or oranges—can enhance iron absorption. Introduce new foods one at a time and monitor for any reaction.

How to Serve Collard greens to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

From 9-18 months, continue cooking collard greens until tender. You can chop leaves into small, manageable bits, or offer whole, soft-cooked, wilted leaves for practicing self-feeding (supervised and observing chewing ability). For added nutrition, sauté in a small amount of olive oil or mix into soft grains, eggs, or casseroles. Always remove thick stems. If exploring finger foods, greens should be soft and easy to grasp, avoiding any stringy or tough pieces. Serve alongside other foods rich in protein, carbs, and healthy fats for a balanced meal.

Serving Instructions

Serve 2-3 tablespoons (30-45 ml) of cooked, chopped collard greens as a finger food, blended into soft grains, or folded into eggs or casseroles. As part of a balanced meal, pair with proteins (tofu, beans, fish, or poultry), fats, and carbohydrate-rich foods. Collard greens continue to contribute fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and a dose of calcium. Cut into small, soft pieces to encourage self-feeding and chewing practice, and avoid any tough or stringy stems.

How to Serve Collard greens to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

For children 18+ months, continue to serve collard greens cooked until tender. At this age, you can offer bite-sized pieces or gently sautéed leaves as a side, in pasta, or mixed into omelets and casseroles. Ensure leaves are cut into small, manageable portions and thick stems are still removed to prevent stringy texture. Avoid serving raw leaves until strong chewing skills develop, as raw collards are tough and can be a choking hazard. Keep meals varied by incorporating greens alongside protein, starchy veggies, and colorful fruits.

Serving Instructions

Serve 3-4 tablespoons (45-60 ml) of cooked collard greens, chopped or sautéed, as part of a meal with grains, protein, and fruits or other vegetables. Collard greens add variety, color, fiber, vitamins A and C, and a small amount of calcium to the diet. Continue to ensure pieces are easy to chew and avoid undercooked or raw leaves until your child consistently chews well. Rotate with other leafy greens for exposure to different nutrients and flavors.