Easy Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is everything you want in a healthy, flavorful meal. The Swiss chard is tender yet hearty, while the cannellini beans provide a creamy, comforting texture. The garlic adds a savory depth, complemented by the heat from red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper. The slight tang from the vinegar ties all the flavors together, making each bite a balanced and satisfying experience. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect quick meal or side dish for any occasion!

Ingredients

• 1 large bunch of chard (any type)
• 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 5 large cloves of garlic, sliced
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper (optional)
• 1-15oz can of cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Swiss chard:
   Rinse the Swiss chard thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Remove the stems from the leaves and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
2. Sauté the garlic:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Cook the Swiss chard:
   Add the chopped Swiss chard to the skillet, along with the sea salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the chard wilts and softens.
4. Add the beans:
   Stir in the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beans are warmed through.
5. Finish with vinegar:
   Drizzle the red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) over the chard and beans, stirring to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the vinegar to slightly reduce.
6. Serve:
   Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Enjoy immediately!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves about 4 as a side dish.
• Prep Time: 5 minutes.
• Cook Time: 15 minutes.
• Total Time: 20 minutes.

Variations

• Add protein: To make this a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken, sausage, or a fried egg on top.
• Different greens: Feel free to swap Swiss chard for other leafy greens like kale or spinach.
• Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan-friendly, but you can add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Add a squeeze of lemon: If you prefer a citrusy kick, squeeze a little lemon juice over the dish just before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other beans like great northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas as a substitute for cannellini beans.

Can I use pre-washed, bagged chard?

Yes, if you prefer convenience, pre-washed, bagged chard works well in this recipe. Just skip the rinsing step.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While Swiss chard is best enjoyed fresh, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Although the dish will lose some of its texture when frozen, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper to suit your spice tolerance. You can also add a chopped fresh chili pepper for an extra kick.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic gives the best flavor in this recipe, but if you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

How do I know when the Swiss chard is cooked?

The Swiss chard is done when it’s wilted and tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes of cooking. You can taste a piece to check for doneness.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini to make the dish more vibrant and varied.

Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this dish is relatively low in carbs, making it a good option for those following a low-carb or keto diet, especially if you skip the beans.

Conclusion

Easy Swiss chard with cannellini beans is a quick and flavorful dish that’s as healthy as it is tasty. The combination of tender greens, creamy beans, and aromatic garlic makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal or side dish. With its simplicity and versatility, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a light lunch. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with added proteins, it’s a dish everyone will love!

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