Garlicky Swiss Chard with Tomatoes and Crispy Breadcrumbs

Swiss Chard with Tomatoes and Garlic

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish, this Swiss Chard with Tomatoes and Garlic is a perfect option. Packed with nutrients, vibrant colors, and a punch of savory and spicy flavor, this simple recipe is great for any time of day, whether you’re serving it for lunch or as a light snack. Inspired by a classic Chicago Tribune recipe, it combines the earthy goodness of Swiss chard with the sweetness of tomatoes and the richness of garlic, topped with crispy breadcrumbs for texture. It’s easy, healthy, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays.

Recipe Information:

Ingredients:

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Swiss Chard:
   Begin by trimming off the coarse, tough leaves and thick central ribs from the Swiss chard. Then, cut the tender stems and leafy parts into 1/2-inch slices. You want to ensure the pieces are small enough to cook quickly and evenly, but large enough to maintain their texture.

2. Toast the Breadcrumbs:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs to the pan and cook, stirring often, until they are golden and crispy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once toasted, remove the breadcrumbs from the skillet and set them aside for later.

3. Sauté Garlic:
   Reduce the heat slightly and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be sure not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter if overcooked.

4. Cook the Swiss Chard:
   Add the prepared Swiss chard to the skillet, stirring it into the garlic and oil mixture. Continue to cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the chard to wilt and soften. The greens should reduce in volume and become tender, but still retain a slight texture. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
   Once the chard has wilted, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them into the chard, letting them soften and release their juices into the pan. Season with salt and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. If you like a bit more heat, you can add extra red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.

6. Finish the Dish:
   Remove the skillet from the heat once everything is well combined and heated through. Transfer the Swiss chard mixture to serving dishes and top with the toasted breadcrumbs for a bit of crunch. The breadcrumbs will add a pleasant contrast to the tender greens and juicy tomatoes.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   This dish is best served immediately while the breadcrumbs are still crispy. You can enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish to a main meal, or even as a flavorful snack. The combination of Swiss chard, tomatoes, and garlic offers a nutrient-packed meal that is both satisfying and healthy.

Tips:

• Make It Your Own: Feel free to experiment with other greens such as kale, spinach, or mustard greens. Each type of green will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.
• Vegan Option: To keep the dish completely plant-based, skip the bread crumbs or use a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Add Protein: If you’d like to make this dish heartier, consider adding a protein such as grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
• Make it Spicy: For an extra kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper to the pan when cooking the garlic.

This Swiss Chard with Tomatoes and Garlic is a quick and easy way to get a delicious and healthy vegetable dish on your table in under 30 minutes. With the right balance of flavor, spice, and texture, it’s a dish you can prepare again and again.

Enjoy cooking, and remember—good food doesn’t have to be complicated to be incredible!