8 Easy Chard Recipes for 2024: Healthy & Tasty

Chard is a versatile green that deserves a spot in your kitchen. Packed with nutrients and a subtle earthy flavor, it’s a great way to add color and health to your meals. Whether you’re new to cooking with chard or looking for fresh ideas, there are plenty of easy ways to make it shine.

You’ll love how chard works in everything from quick sautés to hearty soups. Its tender leaves and crunchy stems are easy to prepare and bring a delicious balance of textures to the table. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Keep reading to discover simple recipes to inspire your next meal. You don’t need fancy techniques or hours of prep time. Let’s dive in and discover how easy and tasty cooking with chard can be!

1. Swiss Chard & Wild Mushroom Penne

Ingredients 📃

• 6 oz penne pasta

• 8 oz Swiss chard

• 4 oz mixed wild mushrooms

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped

• 4 oz sour cream

• 1 oz parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 tsp chili flakes

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the chard: While the pasta cooks, wash the chard thoroughly. Separate the leaves from the stems. Slice the stems thinly and roughly chop the leaves.

3. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, chili flakes, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

4. Cook the mushrooms and chard stems: Add the mushrooms and chard stems to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden and the stems have softened.

5. Wilt the chard leaves: Toss in the chard leaves and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted and vibrant.

6. Make the sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream. Gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

7. Combine with pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat in the sauce, adjusting seasoning if needed.

8. Finish with parmesan: Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Overview 🔍

This is a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night. I love how easy it is to make, and you can use whatever mushrooms you have on hand – wild ones work great, but any type will do. I also like to add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick, but feel free to adjust it to your taste.

Pasta is always a hit with kids, and you don’t have to stick to penne; just grab whatever shape you’ve got in the pantry. If you’re looking for more simple recipes, check out our full guide to easy meals for inspiration.

2. Turkey-Stuffed Swiss Chard

Ingredients 📃

• 16 oz. diced tomatoes, canned

• 14 oz. ground turkey

• 3 green onions, chopped

• 1 oz. grated parmesan cheese

• 1 oz. thyme sprigs

• 1 oz. Swiss chard, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp. red pepper flakes

• 1 vegetable bouillon cube

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Prep the vegetables: Tear the leaves off the stems of the Swiss chard, making long pieces that are easy to roll. Optionally, leave the stems intact for easier rolling. Rinse and peel the leaves off the thyme sprigs. Slice the green onions and chop the garlic.

2. Prepare the turkey filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, thyme leaves, half the garlic, half the red pepper flakes, and ¾ of the green onions. Season with salt and pepper, then mix together.

3. Roll the chard: Take a portion of turkey mixture and place it at the end of each chard leaf. Roll the leaf tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat until all rolls are made.

4. Cook the chard rolls: Heat 1 ½ cups of water in a large sauté pan. Add the bouillon cube and whisk until dissolved. Place the chard rolls, seam-side down, into the pan. Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 9-12 minutes, or until the rolls are firm and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

5. Prepare the ragout: In another sauté pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until soft. Add the diced tomatoes and remaining red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 6-8 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Plate the dish: Spoon some tomato sauce onto each plate, then top with two chard rolls. Spoon more sauce over the rolls and garnish with parmesan cheese and the remaining green onions.

Overview 🔍

This recipe is a fun way to switch up your meals while sneaking in extra greens. Rolling the turkey mixture in chard leaves makes it feel a bit fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to do. Plus, the flavorful tomato ragout ties it all together perfectly.

What I love about this dish is how adaptable it is. You can swap the turkey for ground chicken or even a plant-based mince if you prefer. If you don’t have chard, collard leaves work well too. It’s also fun to play around with the spices. Add smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or skip the chili flakes if you’re feeding kids who prefer it milder. 

3. Green Vegetable Pad Thai

Ingredients 📃

• 8 oz rice noodles

• 1 oz Swiss chard, chopped

• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 2 green onions, sliced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup pad thai sauce (store-bought)

• 1 tsp chili flakes 

• 2 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped (for garnish)

• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges (for garnish)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the noodles: Prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then sauté the garlic, Swiss chard, peas, and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the pad thai sauce and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.

4. Serve and garnish: Plate the pad thai and top with green onions, chopped peanuts, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Overview 🔍

This green vegetable pad thai is really simple to make. It uses fresh ingredients and minimal prep. The store-bought pad thai sauce makes it quick and easy, so you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time. Whether you're cooking for yourself or the family, this dish is a great way to get in your greens and enjoy a tasty, vibrant dinner.

You can easily vary the dish by using different sauces. For a milder, sweeter flavor, try sweet chili sauce. Peanut sauce with soy sauce works well if you prefer a richer, creamier texture. For a bolder, slightly smoky flavor, teriyaki sauce is a great option. These swaps offer plenty of ways to tailor the dish to your taste.

4. Sausage & Swiss Chard Stew

Ingredients 📃

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 4 sausages (your choice, casings removed)

• 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped (around 300 g)

• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the sausages: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook, breaking them apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the chard and seasonings: Add the chopped Swiss chard to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Then, return the sausage to the pot and stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Add broth and simmer: Pour in the broth and add the white beans. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve.

Overview 🔍

This stew featuring sausages and Swiss chard is a fantastic recipe for meal prep. It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of nutritious veggies. Plus, everything comes together in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.

You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. You can swap the sausage for a plant-based version. Also, feel free to mix up the vegetables. Kale or spinach can replace the chard, and sweet potatoes or parsnips make a great addition for extra heartiness.

5. Sautéed Swiss Chard

Ingredients 📃

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems and leaves separated, both sliced

• 1 red chili, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the stems: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chard stems and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the garlic and sliced chili to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

3. Cook the leaves: Add the chard leaves to the pan and toss to combine. Drizzle with soy sauce and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until the leaves are wilted and tender.

4. Finish and serve: Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve.

Overview 🔍

This sautéed chard is a versatile dish that’s as simple as it is flavorful. Serve it warm as a side to complement any main course, or spoon it over rice for a quick, satisfying meal. The soy sauce adds a rich, umami flavor, while the sesame seeds give it a light, nutty crunch. 

If you’re not a fan of too much spice, you can easily adjust the heat by removing the seeds from the red chili before slicing. Alternatively, you could skip the chili altogether and still have a delicious dish. Feel free to experiment with adding lemon juice or crushed peanuts.

6. Chicken & Swiss Chard Salad

Ingredients 📃

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• salt and pepper, to taste

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 cups kale, stems removed, chopped

• 2 cups Swiss chard, stems removed, chopped

• 1 cup roasted chicken breast, shredded or sliced

• ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled

• ¼ cup dried cranberries

• ¼ cup toasted pecans

• 1 small apple, thinly sliced

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, dijon mustard, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Prep the greens: Massage kale and Swiss chard with a small drizzle of the dressing in a large bowl to soften them.

3. Assemble the salad: Add the chicken, feta, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and apple slices to the bowl with the greens. Toss gently to combine.

4. Dress and serve: Pour the remaining dressing over the salad and toss again to coat. Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful meal or side.

Overview 🔍

This is a festive dish perfect for gatherings or even a cozy dinner at home. It’s packed with color and flavor. From the tangy cranberries and creamy feta to the crunch of toasted pecans. The lemon-dijon dressing ties everything together with a bright, zesty kick, making it feel fresh and vibrant.

You can easily adapt the salad to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap the feta for goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a vegan alternative to fit different tastes. It’s a versatile dish that feels special but is simple enough to whip up anytime!

7. Swiss Chard Pie

Ingredients 📃

• 1 (9-inch) pie crust

• 4 eggs

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp mixed dried herbs 

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 4 cups Swiss chard, chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Prepare the filling: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped Swiss chard and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

2. Mix the eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cheddar cheese, feta, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooled chard mixture and combine well.

3. Assemble the pie: Pour the egg and chard mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.

4. Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.

5. Serve: Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving. 

Overview 🔍

This is a savory, cheesy dish that’s perfect for a light meal or brunch. The combination of cheddar, feta, and eggs creates a creamy filling, while the Swiss chard adds a healthy, earthy touch. It’s simple to make, and the pie crust holds everything together beautifully.

I like to adapt this recipe based on what I have on hand. Swap out the cheese for your favorites or even try a crustless version for a lighter dish. The mix of flavors is flexible, so feel free to get creative with the herbs and seasonings.

8. Chard Stir-Fry

Ingredients 📃

• 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems and leaves separated and chopped

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tsp honey

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

• 1 block firm tofu (14 oz), cut into bite-sized cubes

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

2. Cook the tofu: Heat olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.

4. Cook the chard stems: Add the chopped Swiss chard stems to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.

5. Add chard leaves and sauce: Toss in the Swiss chard leaves and pour the sauce over the top. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the leaves are wilted and coated in the sauce.

6. Combine and serve: Return the cooked tofu to the pan and toss to combine. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Overview 🔍

This is a quick, nutritious dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any weeknight. The crispy tofu soaks up the savory soy-based sauce, while the Swiss chard adds a tender, slightly earthy balance. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to include more greens in your meals.

Feel free to swap the tofu for chicken, shrimp, or beef if you prefer, making it versatile for any diet. Serve it over rice or noodles for a hearty, complete meal that comes together in no time. It’s a dish you’ll enjoy making again and again.

FAQ

What is the best way to eat chard?

The best way to eat Swiss chard depends on your preference and the dish. You can sauté it with garlic and olive oil for a simple side, blend it into soups or smoothies, or add it to pasta, frittatas, or grain bowls. The leaves can also be eaten raw in salads.

How do you get the bitterness out of chard?

To reduce bitterness, blanch the leaves in salted boiling water for a few minutes. You can also sauté them with aromatics like garlic, onions, and vinegar. Cooking with complementary flavors, such as balsamic vinegar or sweet ingredients like raisins, balances the taste.

Do you eat the stems of Swiss chard?

Yes, Swiss chard stems are edible and nutritious. You can chop and cook them separately by sautéing, roasting, stir-frying, or baking them with seasonings. Stems require slightly longer cooking than the leaves, so add them to your dish first to ensure they soften properly​.