| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 80 | 5g | 1g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 3g | 3g | 0.3g |
I’ve always had a soft spot for the Braised Swiss Chard with Garlic, a recipe that is not only close to my heart but also one that truly represents my Italian roots and love for healthy, hearty meals. Featuring Swiss chard, a nutrition-packed green, this dish brings a delightful blend of flavors, brimming with health benefits for your body. The addition of garlic adds the perfect zest to amplify the dish’s aroma and taste.
A Fusion of Heart and Health
As a grandfather, I’m always on the lookout for foods that are as beneficial to the body as they are pleasing to the palate. The star ingredient, Swiss chard is not only a terrific source of vitamins K, A, and C but also provides potent antioxidants known to fight off diseases. These nutritious greens, along with garlic, a renowned superfood, create a powerhouse of health benefits.
A Taste of Home
The flavors of this heartwarming dish remind me of the traditional Italian cuisine that my grandparents used to prepare. While it’s not as familiar as spaghetti or meatballs, focusing on vegetables like the Braised Swiss Chard with Garlic brings me back to my roots. I find joy in sharing these ancestral culinary traditions and hope you feel the same warmth and love that I feel when I indulge in this dish.
This recipe is a spectacular side dish that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. It’s particularly delicious alongside lemon roasted chicken, forming a beautiful balance between protein and fiber-rich vegetables.
Whether you’re trying out this Braised Swiss Chard with Garlic for a family gathering or a solo dinner, it’s a fantastic choice. It’s noteworthy how something as simple as a vegetable-based dish can transcend generations, continents, and cultures. As we say in Italian, Buon Appetito!
What You’ll Need
- 2 large bunches of Swiss chard (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Method
Step One
Start by cleaning the Swiss chard. Trim the ends of the stalks and rinse the leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit.
Step Two
Chop the Swiss chard into bite-sized pieces. Separating the stalks and leaves, as the stalks will take a little longer to cook.
Step Three
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté until it is fragrant and slightly golden, about a minute.
Step Four
Add the Swiss chard stalks to the pan first and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
Step Five
Add in the Swiss chard leaves, chicken or vegetable broth, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together and cover the pan. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, until the Swiss chard is wilted and tender.
Step Six
Turn off the heat and drizzle the lemon juice over the Swiss chard. Toss it one more time so that everything is well mixed. Now the Braised Swiss Chard with Garlic is ready to be served.
