Chard Pasta Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Meal Ideas

Looking for a vibrant and wholesome vegetarian pasta dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? This chard pasta recipe is a fantastic way to bring fresh, leafy greens to your dinner table, offering a delightful twist on classic pasta meals.

Swiss chard, with its tender leaves and slightly earthy flavor, pairs beautifully with garlic, olive oil, and a touch of lemon zest to create a light yet satisfying sauce that coats your pasta perfectly.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more greens into your meals, this recipe is simple, quick, and sure to impress.

Not only is this dish packed with vitamins and minerals from the chard, but it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Plus, it’s perfect for weeknight meals or when you want to whip up something fresh and healthy with minimal fuss.

Dive in and discover how chard can transform your pasta night!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chard pasta recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s loaded with nutrient-rich Swiss chard, which is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber and antioxidants.

It brings vibrant color and a subtle earthiness that elevates the dish beyond typical pasta sauces.

Second, the recipe is incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It requires minimal ingredients and basic kitchen equipment, yet delivers a complex and satisfying flavor profile that feels comforting and fresh at the same time.

Finally, it’s completely vegetarian and can be made vegan by using plant-based alternatives for cheese. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, plant-forward meal without compromising on taste or texture.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
• 1 large bunch Swiss chard (about 8 cups chopped, stems removed)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional, for crunch)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Knife and cutting board
• Zester or fine grater
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. Prepare the chard. While the pasta cooks, wash the Swiss chard thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves roughly into bite-sized pieces.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft.
4. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
5. Add the chopped chard leaves to the skillet. Stir to coat with the oil and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chard is wilted and tender.
6. Season the chard mixture. Add salt, pepper, lemon zest, and about half of the lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
8. Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
9. Serve immediately. Garnish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and a sprinkle of more cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.

You can swap out the pine nuts for toasted almonds or pecans for a different crunch. If you like a creamier sauce, add a splash of plant-based cream or a dollop of ricotta at the end.

For extra protein, consider stirring in cooked chickpeas or white beans. You can also experiment by adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean flair.

If you want to boost the flavor further, sauté some mushrooms along with the onions or add fresh herbs like basil or thyme at the end of cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chard pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For an easy appetizer, try a light bruschetta or garlic bread to complement the fresh flavors of the pasta.

If you enjoy seafood, a simple grilled fish like halibut would be a lovely addition; check out this Halibut Dip Recipe for some inspiration on how to prepare halibut in creative ways.

For dessert, something light and citrusy like lemon straws would be perfect—try this Lemon Straws Recipe to finish your meal on a sweet note.

Conclusion

This vegetarian chard pasta recipe is a delightful way to bring fresh, wholesome ingredients to your dinner table without any fuss. It’s nutritious, colorful, and bursting with flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

With its simple preparation and adaptable ingredients, you can easily tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy Swiss chard, a leafy green that deserves more attention in everyday cooking.

Don’t forget to explore other tasty vegetarian recipes like the Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the hearty Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food for more inspiration in your kitchen!

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