Description
This vibrant recipe for Sautéed Swiss Chard with Garlic and Lemon is a simple, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. Fresh Swiss chard is sautéed gently with aromatic garlic in extra virgin olive oil until tender-crisp, then brightened with fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a refreshing, nutritious vegetable dish.
Ingredients
Swiss Chard
- 2 bunches Swiss chard (any color)
Cooking Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 head garlic, cloves peeled and thinly sliced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Sprinkle of flaky sea salt (Maldon recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare Swiss Chard: Wash the Swiss chard thoroughly to remove any dirt trapped in the curly leaves and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Chop the Chard: Cut the stems off at the base of the leaves. Slice the stems crosswise into 1/2 inch thick pieces. Roughly chop the leaves by cutting each leaf vertically into four long strips, then crosswise into approximately 2-inch squares. Include the inner stems with the leaves to cook evenly.
- Cook the Garlic: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and sliced garlic. Cook over low heat, stirring often, until the garlic becomes tender and just golden without browning, about 5 to 10 minutes. Reduce heat if garlic cooks too fast.
- Sauté the Swiss Chard: Add the chopped Swiss chard stems and leaves to the skillet and increase heat to medium. Stir occasionally and cook until the chard is wilted and the stems are crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the cooked chard and sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt. Toss quickly to coat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make sure to wash the Swiss chard thoroughly as the leaves can hold dirt and grit.
- Keep the garlic cooking low and slow to avoid burning and bitterness.
- The stems cook nicely alongside the leaves, so no need to discard them.
- Use fresh lemon juice and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or can be served as a healthy vegetarian side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
