Swiss Chard with Bacon

Published October 15, 2020

I really enjoy the taste of Swiss chard- but then I also like beet greens. Swiss chard is a close relative of beets. Unlike beets, chard does not produce edible roots. All leaves, all the time. They cook pretty quickly and have a rich, earthy flavor. Combined with a little bacon the chard is elevated to a whole new level.

Since I was recently given a lot of Swiss chard, I have been having fun cooking with it. This is one of my favorite preparations.

Braised Chard

1½ lbs. Swiss chard

2-3 slices bacon, chopped

2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Wash chard and trim ends off stems. Place chard in large pot with boiling water and cook until stems are fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and rinse chard with cold water. Cool and squeeze out excess water. Coarsely chop chard and set aside. Heat skillet and add bacon, cooking until bacon starts to brown. Add chard and garlic and cook, stirring often until chard is sizzling- about 5 minutes. Season to taste and serve. Serves 4.