Swiss chard is a healthy and vibrant leafy green with a mild taste and plenty of nutrients. Its thick stems and colorful leaves make it a visually appealing addition to any meal. If you’re looking for ways to incorporate more greens into your diet, try these five methods to prepare and cook Swiss chard, each of which highlights its unique characteristics.

1. Sautéed Swiss Chard

One of the simplest ways to prepare Swiss chard is by sautéing it. Begin by washing the chard thoroughly and removing the stems. Then, slice the leaves into thin ribbons. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add some minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook until fragrant. Add the Swiss chard and cook until wilted – about 5 minutes. Finish with a splash of lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

2. Swiss Chard Salad

Swiss chard makes for an excellent salad base due to its tender texture when raw. Rinse and dry the leaves before slicing them thinly. Toss the chard in a bowl with your choice of vegetables – cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or roasted beets are all great options. For added flavor, sprinkle in some nuts or cheese before dressing the salad with your favorite vinaigrette.

3. Baked Swiss Chard Chips

Turn your Swiss chard into a crispy snack by making baked chard chips. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove the stems from the leaves, then tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil and season generously with sea salt, black pepper, or even paprika for extra flavor. Spread them out evenly on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until crispy.

4. Stuffed Swiss Chard Rolls

Create delicious stuffed Swiss chard rolls by blanching the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften them. Then, lay the leaves flat on a cutting board and cut out the thick stems. Add your favorite filling (such as rice, vegetables, or ground meat), fold the sides of the chard leaf over the filling, and roll into a tight bundle. Place seam-side down in a baking dish and cook at 350°F (180°C) for about 30 minutes, until heated through.

5. Swiss Chard Quiche

Add Swiss chard to an egg-based quiche for a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish. Sauté sliced Swiss chard leaves with garlic and onions until soft. Spread the sautéed greens onto a pre-baked pie crust, then top with grated cheese. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, and pour the mixture over the greens and cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-45 minutes until set in the middle.

Whether you prefer your greens raw or cooked, these ideas provide delicious and versatile ways to enjoy Swiss chard. Try any of these methods to enjoy this nutritious vegetable as part of a balanced meal.