Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce

Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce Recipe | Vegetarian Food | Argentina, Switzerland

Region / culture: Argentina, Switzerland | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of Swiss chard with the richness of cream. This recipe is a great way to enjoy this leafy green vegetable in a new and exciting way.

History

Swiss chard has been a popular vegetable in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. This recipe likely originated in Switzerland, where chard is a common ingredient in traditional dishes. The addition of cream to the dish adds a luxurious touch and enhances the flavor of the chard.

Ingredients

25 g / 1 oz butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, cut into julienne strips
1 medium potato, cut into 12 mm / 0.5 inches cubes
450 g / 1 lb swiss chard, thinly sliced on the diagonal
salt and pepper
3 tbsp double cream

How to prepare

In a saucepan, heat the butter. Add the onion, carrot, and potato, and sauté for about 15 minutes or until tender.
Add the chard to the saucepan, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
Cover the saucepan and simmer over very low heat for about 10 minutes or until the chard is tender.
Stir in the cream and continue to simmer gently, uncovered, for a few minutes longer.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor.
Substitute the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the Swiss chard thinly on the diagonal to ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt and pepper if desired.

- For a lighter version of this dish, you can use low-fat cream or substitute with milk.

- Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also pairs well with pasta or rice for a more substantial meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender but still have a slight bite to them.

- Simmer the sauce gently to prevent the cream from curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use spinach or kale as a substitute for Swiss chard.

- Olive oil can be used instead of butter for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. Serve in a decorative dish for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. It also goes well with a light beer or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Swiss chard is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. This dish provides a healthy dose of these essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream) and butter, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Swiss chard while indulging in a creamy sauce.

Summary

Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce. I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in the countryside. She was known for her delicious and comforting dishes, and I always looked forward to our family gatherings at her home.

One sunny afternoon, as we sat down for lunch, my aunt brought out a steaming dish of Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce. The vibrant green color of the chard caught my eye, and I couldn't wait to dig in. As I took my first bite, I was struck by the perfect balance of flavors - the slight bitterness of the chard, the richness of the cream, and the savory notes from the garlic and spices. It was a revelation, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

After lunch, I begged my aunt to teach me her recipe. She chuckled and agreed, leading me to her kitchen where we gathered all the ingredients we would need. As she walked me through the steps, I watched her with rapt attention. I learned how to clean and chop the Swiss Chard, how to sauté garlic and onions until they were golden brown, and how to simmer the chard in a creamy sauce until it was tender and flavorful.

I listened carefully as my aunt shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The dish had been a family favorite for as long as she could remember, and she was proud to continue the tradition.

As we sat down to enjoy our own batch of Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce, I marveled at the power of food to connect us to our past. The flavors reminded me of all the meals I had shared with my family over the years, and I felt grateful to be able to carry on this tradition.

From that day on, Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any time I needed a comforting and nourishing meal. Each time I prepared it, I felt a sense of connection to my aunt and her grandmother, as if they were guiding me through the process.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the recipe, adding my own touches and experimenting with different seasonings. But the core of the dish remains the same - tender Swiss Chard in a rich and creamy sauce, a perfect blend of flavors that never fails to warm the soul.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will feel the same sense of connection and tradition that I do. I hope that they will remember the story behind the dish, the love and care that went into each step of the preparation, and the joy of sharing a meal with those you hold dear.

Swiss Chard in Cream Sauce will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring us together and keep our traditions alive. And as long as I can still stand in my kitchen and stir a pot on the stove, I will continue to make this dish with love and gratitude for all the memories it holds.