How to Cook Chard

The stems of chard are very colorful, but tough. You can save these to flavor soups and stews.

Swiss Chard, or Chard, is a hearty leafy green that is similar to spinach, mustard greens, and collard greens. Packed with nutrients and available at most grocery stores for relatively little (about $1-$2 per bunch), chard is delicious and very easy to prepare. Heartier than spinach and just as sweet, chard can be substituted for spinach in many recipes.

Things You'll Need

• chard
• knife
• cutting board
• water
• sautee pan
• olive oil
• minced garlic
• salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Rinse chard by placing in a sink full of water. Swish the chard in the water, as if you are giving it a bath. Dry with a salad spinner or paper towels.

2. Remove the center stems. These can be cooked, but need more cooking time than the leaves. The stems are also less popular to eat than the leaves. Fold the leaves in half and pull off the stem with your fingers. Discard or add to your compost bin. You can also save them for later preparation.

3. Stack the leaves in a pile and slice into long ribbons. You can also tear them into small pieces.

4. Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the saute pan. Heat over medium heat.

5. Add chard to the pan slowly. You may need to wait until it cooks down before you can add the whole batch.

6. Sprinkle minced garlic over the chard. Saute for 5 to 10 minutes or until the chard is softened. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Tips & Warnings

• Chard can be prepared with a little water boiling in a pot, as you would prepare spinach.

• Chard is a very versatile green and can be flavored with different kinds of vinegar or butter.

References

• Pen and Fork: How to Cook Swiss Chard
• Real Simple: Chard
• The Kitchn: Basic Technique; How to Prepare Chard

Resources

• Casual Kitchen: Antioxidant Alert How to Cook Swiss Chard