How to Use Swiss Chard From the Garden

Enjoy your garden-fresh Swiss chard.

Swiss chard is an easy-to-grow vegetable that produces for much of the summer. It has a taste similar to spinach and can be used in many recipes that call for spinach. When there is an abundance of Swiss chard, either in the garden or at the farmers market, branch out with a few new recipes.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh Swiss chard
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese, regular or low fat
• 1/2 envelope of vegetable soup mix
• 5-ounce can water chestnuts, finely chopped
• Crackers or sourdough bread

Instructions

1. Pick 12 to 20 small, or 5 to 10 large, Swiss chard leaves. Cut off the thick stems and set them aside. Rinse the leaves well and slice into 1-inch strips. Place leaves in a covered saucepan, add 1 inch of water and bring it to a boil. Let steam 3 to 4 minutes until the leaves are tender. Serve the Swiss chard as a side dish with butter or cider vinegar, or cool the leaves, drain well and use in a recipe.

2. Make a Cheesy Swiss Chard Spread by mixing softened cream cheese, 1/2 envelope of dry soup mix and finely chopped water chestnuts with the cooked Swiss chard. Mix well and serve as a spread for crackers or sourdough bread. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

3. Substitute Swiss chard for the spinach in a vegetable lasagna or similar recipes.

4. Chop and steam the thick Swiss chard stems to serve along with the cooked leaves. The stems may also be used in some recipes as a substitute for celery.