Swiss Chard

• Sautéed Swiss Chard as a Simple Side Dish: Looking for a quick and healthy side? Sautéed Swiss chard with garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes is a flavorful and easy way to enjoy this leafy green. Simply wash and chop the chard, then sauté the stalks first before adding the leaves for a perfectly cooked vegetable.
• Swiss Chard in Soups and Stews: Add chopped Swiss chard to your favorite soups and stews during the last few minutes of cooking to add nutrients, flavor, and vibrant color. Swiss chard wilts quickly, making it ideal for adding a boost of green to your hearty dishes. Consider using it in minestrone or a vegetable broth for added depth.
• Swiss Chard in Quiches and Frittatas: Incorporate cooked Swiss chard into quiches and frittatas for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or brunch. Its mild, earthy flavor complements eggs and cheese perfectly. Ensure the chard is drained well after cooking to prevent a soggy dish.
• Swiss Chard Stems as a Pickled Vegetable: Don't discard the colorful stems of Swiss chard! Pickle them in a vinegar-based brine for a tangy and crunchy condiment. Pickled Swiss chard stems add a unique flavor and texture to salads, sandwiches, or cheese boards. This is a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy the entire vegetable.
• Swiss Chard as a Filling for Ravioli or Pasta: Use cooked and finely chopped Swiss chard as a filling for homemade ravioli or other pasta dishes. Combine it with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings for a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian filling. Serve with a simple butter sauce or marinara sauce.
• Swiss Chard Added to Smoothies: Wondering how to sneak more greens into your diet? Add a handful of Swiss chard to your morning smoothie for a nutritional boost. Its mild flavor is easily masked by fruits like berries and bananas, making it a virtually undetectable addition to your favorite smoothie recipe.

• Rich in Vitamins: Excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, supporting bone health, vision, and immune function.
• High in Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and flavonoids, helping to protect against cellular damage from free radicals.
• Supports Heart Health: Potassium in Swiss chard helps regulate blood pressure, contributing to cardiovascular wellness.
• Promotes Digestive Health: High fiber content aids in healthy digestion and promotes bowel regularity.
• Bone Strengthening: Vitamin K and calcium contribute to strong and healthy bones.
• May Help Manage Blood Sugar: Certain compounds in Swiss chard could assist in regulating blood sugar levels.

To store Swiss chard, first wash and thoroughly dry the leaves. Wrap them loosely in a paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or container in the refrigerator crisper drawer. This helps to absorb excess moisture and keep the leaves from wilting. Properly stored Swiss chard can last for up to a week. Avoid storing chard near fruits like apples or bananas, as the ethylene gas they emit can cause the chard to spoil faster. For longer storage, Swiss chard can be blanched and frozen.