Sauteed swiss chard

Sautéed Swiss chard is a nutritious side dish featuring vibrant greens, garlic, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. It's quickly cooked in a blend of butter and olive oil, finished with lemon juice for a fresh zing.

04 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1.50 tbsp butter
1.50 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1/2 tsp red pepper (spice)
10 cups swiss chard
3 tsp lemon juice
1 dash salt
Sauteed swiss chard

Sautéed Swiss chard is a simple yet delicious side dish that's packed with nutrients and flavor. Swiss chard, with its deep green leaves and colorful stems, is the star of this recipe, complemented by the richness of butter, the subtle zing of olive oil, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. This dish is perfect for a quick and healthy addition to any meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Swiss Chard:
- Wash the Swiss chard thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Trim the tough stems and roughly chop the leaves and tender parts of the stems.
2. Heat the Pan:
- Place a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1.5 tablespoons of butter and 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt and combine with the olive oil, creating a flavorful base for the Swiss chard.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
- Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet.
- Stir frequently and cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
4. Add Red Pepper Flakes:
- Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the skillet.
- Stir them into the garlic and oil mixture, allowing the flavors to blend for another minute.
5. Cook the Swiss Chard:
- Add the chopped Swiss chard to the skillet. It may seem like a large amount, but it will wilt down significantly as it cooks.
- Stir the chard occasionally, ensuring it is coated evenly with the garlic and oil mixture.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chard becomes tender and wilted.
6. Add Lemon Juice and Season:
- Once the chard is cooked, drizzle 3 teaspoons of lemon juice over the top.
- Add a dash of salt to taste, stirring everything together until well combined.
7. Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Transfer the sautéed Swiss chard to a serving dish.
- Serve immediately as a nutritious side dish or as a topping for your favorite grain or protein.

In just a few steps, you've created a vibrant and tasty side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Sautéed Swiss chard is not only easy to make but also an excellent way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful recipe any time you need a quick and nutritious side.

Sauteed swiss chard FAQ:

How long does it take to sauté Swiss chard?

Sautéing Swiss chard typically takes about 5-7 minutes after the garlic and red pepper have been cooked. The chard should become tender and wilted during this time.

What pan size is best for sautéing Swiss chard?

A large skillet is recommended for sautéing Swiss chard, as it allows enough space for the chard to cook evenly and wilt down properly.

Can I substitute olive oil with another oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with another oil of your choice, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil, but the flavor may differ slightly.

How should I store leftover sautéed Swiss chard?

Store leftover sautéed Swiss chard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of sautéed Swiss chard?

You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients such as onion, lemon zest, or even nuts like pine nuts for added texture.

Tips:

- Make sure to wash the Swiss chard thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Rinse the leaves under cold running water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

- If you prefer, you can separate the stems from the leaves and sauté the stems first, as they take a bit longer to cook. Add the leaves towards the end to keep them tender.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. If you like things spicier, feel free to add a bit more.

- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

- When sautéing, ensure that the pan is hot enough to slightly caramelize the Swiss chard, which enhances its natural sweetness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 60kcal
Protein 1.78g
Carbohydrates 4.07g
Fiber 1.50g
Sugar 1.13g
Fat 10g

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