Swiss Chard is an incredibly versatile vegetable and is used in countless dishes all over the world. As a leafy green, it’s nutritious, delicious, and downright good for you. So, just what is Swiss Chard used for? Read on to find out!
Sautéing
Sautéing is one of the simplest and most popular methods for preparing Swiss Chard. All you need are a few ingredients and some oil (olive, coconut, vegetable, or whatever you have on hand). Start by heating the oil in a large pan, then add diced onion and/or garlic. Once they have softened, add your chard leaves and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the leaves wilt and the stems become tender. Serve as a side or atop other dishes. You can also add in some cooked beans, nuts, or seeds to make it a complete meal.
Braising
Braising is a great way to give your Swiss Chard a bit of extra flavor. Start by adding some oil to a deep pan and then sautéing onion and/or garlic for a few minutes. Then add in your chard leaves and a bit of broth or water to the pan and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the leaves are tender and the liquid has cooked off. You can then season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices of your choice. Serve as a side or as part of a larger meal.
Roasting
Roasting Swiss Chard is a great way to bring out its flavor and soften the texture. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, then prepare a sheet pan by sprinkling it with oil and some herbs of your choice (rosemary and garlic work great). Add your chard leaves to the pan and give them a good toss so that they’re lightly coated in the oil and herbs. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes, flipping them once halfway through, until they are lightly browned and crispy. Serve immediately as a side or appetizer, or atop salads or other dishes.
Blanching & Pickling
Blanching and pickling Swiss Chard can be a great way to preserve the vegetable’s flavor and texture. Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil, and then add your Swiss Chard leaves to the boiling water. Boil for about 2 minutes, then drain and let cool. If you are pickling, add the cooled chard leaves to a container with some vinegar and spices (such as garlic, red pepper flakes, and/or mustard seeds). Store in the refrigerator and enjoy for up to two weeks.
As you can see, there are plenty of delicious ways to include Swiss Chard in your recipes. Whether you’re sautéing, braising, roasting, or pickling, Swiss Chard is sure to be a tasty addition to your meal. So next time you’re grocery shopping, why not pick up a bunch of Swiss Chard and get creative in the kitchen!