Steamed Chard is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings a touch of freshness and vibrancy to any meal. This tasty recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into tender, flavorful greens, perfect for a healthy side or a light lunch.
To create this delicious dish, simply combine fresh chard leaves with a hint of garlic, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Steam until the chard is wilted and tender, but still bright green. The result is a beautiful and nutritious treat that’s sure to be loved by everyone.
Ideal for dinner parties or cozy family meals, this recipe is easy to make and offers a unique flavor. Each bite contains the tender and earthy taste of chard with a zesty, garlicky kick, similar to traditional Roasted Brussels Sprouts or roasted Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Savor the goodness of Steamed Chard and add a new favorite to your collection of healthy recipes.
Overview: How To Make Steamed Chard?
Step 1: Prepare the Chard
Trim the Swiss chard by slicing the leaves from the stems. Cut the stems into bite-sized pieces and stack the leaves, slicing them into strips and then smaller pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, warm some extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and chard stems, cooking them for a few minutes until the onion is translucent and the stems are tender.
Step 3: Combine and Steam
Stir in the garlic, lemon zest, and kosher salt, then add the chard leaves and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, cover the skillet, and steam the mixture for a few minutes until the chard is wilted and the broth is absorbed.
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
You’ll love Steamed Chard for its simplicity and quick preparation. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious dish.
The fresh chard leaves retain their vibrant color and nutrients giving a touch of health like Butternut Squash Beet Salad. This method preserves the natural flavor and texture of the chard. Each bite offers a satisfying, tender crunch that is both refreshing and wholesome.
The hint of garlic and lemon adds a delightful zesty flavor that complements the earthy taste of the chard. These ingredients elevate the dish, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The aromatic garlic and citrusy lemon enhance the overall experience.
Ideal as a side dish or a light main course, Steamed Chard pairs well with a variety of meals. Its versatility makes it a great addition to any menu, whether you’re serving it with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or a simple grain bowl. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Steamed Chard
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 bunch Swiss chard – can sub rainbow or red chard
- Lemon wedges – for serving, optional
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- 2 cloves garlic – minced
- 2 tsp lemon zest – from about 1 lemon
Instructions
- Begin by trimming the stems from the Swiss chard and cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
- Stack the leaves, slice them lengthwise into strips, and then crosswise into smaller sections.
- Rinse both the leaves and stems thoroughly under running water to eliminate any dirt, then pat them dry.
- You should have approximately 4 to 6 loosely packed cups of leaves and 1 cup of stems, depending on the size of your chard bunch.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped red onion and chard stems, sautéing for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Next, incorporate 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt.
- Stir in the chard leaves along with ½ cup of vegetable broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the broth to be absorbed and the leaves to wilt and soften.
- Serve warm, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, for added flavor and nutrition.
- To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave, being careful not to overcook it, as this can lead to a loss of texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 71 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 6201 IU |
| Vitamin C | 33 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
Helpful Tips For You
- Choose Fresh Chard: Select fresh, young chard leaves for the best flavor and texture. Look for leaves that are vibrant green and free from wilting or browning to have salad as fresh as Kale Butternut Squash Salad.
- Trim the Stems: The stems of chard can be quite tough, so trim them if you prefer a more tender dish. You can also chop and steam the stems separately, as they add a nice crunch.
- Uniform Sizing: Cut the chard leaves into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This will help all the pieces steam evenly and achieve the desired texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Steam the chard for just 3-5 minutes until it’s wilted and tender but still bright green. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture and loss of nutrients.
What to Serve With Steamed Chard?
- Tuscan Butter Shrimp
- Mushroom Scallop Pasta
- Blended Vegetable Soup
- Ina Garten’s Greek Salad
- Thai Chicken Wrap
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best way to clean chard before steaming?
To clean chard, rinse the leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat them dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
Can I add other seasonings or ingredients to steamed chard?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a dash of red pepper flakes. Garlic and lemon juice are classic additions that complement the taste of chard.
How long should I steam chard to achieve the best texture?
Steam chard for about 3-5 minutes until the leaves are wilted and tender but still vibrant green. Overcooking can cause the chard to become mushy and lose its bright color.
How do I prevent chard from becoming too bitter when steamed?
To minimize bitterness, choose fresh, young chard leaves, which are typically milder. Adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar after steaming can also help balance any bitterness.
Can I store leftover steamed chard, and how should I reheat it?
Yes, you can store leftover steamed chard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat or briefly microwave it until heated through.