Swiss chard is a radiant, leafy green that often gets overlooked in the world of vegetarian cooking. Yet, its vibrant stems and lush leaves pack a delightful flavor punch and a nutritional boost that rivals spinach and kale.
Whether you’re an experienced vegetarian or just looking to add more greens to your plate, Swiss chard is a versatile ingredient that shines in a variety of dishes.
In this post, I’ll guide you through a delicious, satisfying vegetarian Swiss chard recipe that highlights the best of this beautiful vegetable.
Swiss chard adapts well to different flavor profiles and cooking techniques. Its earthy taste and silky texture make it perfect for sautés, soups, and even hearty casseroles.
Today’s recipe focuses on a simple yet elegant Sautéed Swiss Chard with Chickpeas and Garlic, but you’ll also find tips for variations, nutritional facts, and serving ideas.
Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or preparing for a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this vegetarian Swiss chard recipe. First and foremost, it’s quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
The combination of tender Swiss chard and protein-rich chickpeas creates a hearty, satisfying dish that can stand alone or serve as a flavorful side.
Swiss chard’s slightly bitter flavor is balanced beautifully by garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. You’ll enjoy layers of taste in every bite.
Plus, this recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and loaded with nutrients like vitamin K, iron, and fiber. If you’re looking for a way to add more greens to your diet, this is a delicious place to start.
Want to explore more meatless meals? Check out our Vegan Casserole Recipes: Easy for quick weeknight dinner or take a global spin with Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor for more inspiration!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty vegetarian Swiss chard recipe. Feel free to substitute or add extras to suit your taste!
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Swiss chard | 1 large bunch (about 10 cups, chopped) | Rinse thoroughly, separate stems and leaves |
| Canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans) | 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed | Or use 1.5 cups cooked chickpeas |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Extra virgin preferred |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Adjust to taste |
| Red onion | 1 small, diced | Or use shallots for a milder flavor |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon | Optional, for heat |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | |
| Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds | 2 tablespoons | Optional, for garnish |
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander (for rinsing chard and chickpeas)
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus juicer (optional, for lemon juice)
- Serving bowl or platter
Instructions
- Prepare the Swiss chard:Rinse the chard thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit. Separate the stems from the leaves.
Chop the stems into small (½-inch) pieces and slice the leaves into ribbons or bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the aromatics:Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion and chopped chard stems.
Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and spices:Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add chickpeas:Pour in the drained chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently to coat them in the aromatic oil.
- Add Swiss chard leaves:Add the chopped chard leaves in batches, allowing each addition to wilt down before adding more. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cook for another 4-6 minutes, until the leaves are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Finish with lemon juice:Remove the pan from heat. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss everything together.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve:Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra crunch and flavor, if desired.
Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips & Variations
Tip: Swiss chard stems are edible and delicious! Don’t throw them away—chop them and sauté with onions for extra texture and flavor.
- Add herbs: Stir in fresh dill, parsley, or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Make it creamy: Add a dollop of ricotta or a sprinkle of crumbled feta (if not vegan) just before serving.
- Spice it up: Toss in a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin for a Mediterranean twist.
- Swap the chickpeas: Use white beans, lentils, or even cooked quinoa for different textures and nutrition.
- Go global: For a Cuban-inspired version, add sweet bell peppers and serve with rice, inspired by our Vegan Cuban Recipes.
- Make it a wrap: Spoon the mixture into a homemade vegan flour tortilla for a portable lunch.
- Use leftovers: Stir into cooked pasta, top a grain bowl, or use as a filling for quesadillas. For inspiration, see our Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious.
“Swiss chard is one of the most forgiving greens—don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own!”
Nutrition Facts
This vegetarian Swiss chard recipe is as nourishing as it is flavorful. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (recipe serves 4):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 185 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Vitamin K | Over 300% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
| Calcium | 10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
*DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Actual values may vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes.
Serving Suggestions
This Swiss chard and chickpea sauté is incredibly versatile. Here are some mouthwatering ways to serve it:
- As a main dish: Serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a complete meal.
- As a hearty side: Pair it with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a slice from your favorite Vegan Bread Maker Recipe for Soft and Delicious Loaves.
- In a wrap or pita: Fill a warm pita or tortilla with the sauté and add a drizzle of tahini or vegan yogurt sauce.
- With pasta: Toss with cooked whole-wheat spaghetti and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan.
- For brunch: Top with a poached egg (if not vegan), or serve alongside a tofu scramble.
- As a salad: Let the mixture cool and toss with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a splash of extra lemon juice for a refreshing grain salad.
Pro Tip: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!
Conclusion
Swiss chard is a true gem in vegetarian kitchens, offering both vibrant color and robust nutrition. This simple sautéed Swiss chard with chickpeas and garlic is a wonderful introduction to this versatile green.
It’s easy enough for beginners yet special enough to serve at gatherings. Plus, you can adapt it endlessly based on your pantry and preferences.
By incorporating more dishes like this into your rotation, you’ll not only diversify your meals but also boost your intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices, add-ins, or different beans to keep things fresh and exciting.
For more vegetarian inspiration, be sure to explore our collection of Vegetarian Recipes for Cinco de Mayo: Festive & Easy Idea and global plant-based recipes.
Thank you for joining me on this journey with Swiss chard. Happy cooking, and may your meals always be as colorful and nourishing as this one!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegetarian Swiss Chard and White Bean Skillet
Description: A hearty, one-pan vegetarian dish featuring Swiss chard, white beans, and tomatoes. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems and leaves separated and chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and Swiss chard stems; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Swiss chard leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Mix in diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Top with Parmesan cheese before serving, if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 210 kcal | Protein: 9 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 32 g
