What To Do With Rainbow Swiss Chard

Rainbow swiss chard is one of the most versatile greens you can bring into your kitchen.

If you’ve ever stared at a bunch of those stunning, multicolored stems and wondered what to do with rainbow swiss chard, you’re in for a treat.

The good news is that this leafy green is incredibly forgiving and can be used in everything from quick sautés to hearty soups and even baked goods.

You can treat rainbow swiss chard much like spinach or kale, but it brings its own unique, slightly earthy flavor and a beautiful pop of color to any dish.

In this post, we’ll dive into the many ways you can cook with rainbow swiss chard, how to prep it properly, and why it deserves a regular spot in your meal rotation.

Let’s get started.

 

Why Rainbow Swiss Chard Is So Easy to Cook With

Rainbow swiss chard is easy to cook with because both the leaves and stems are completely edible and delicious.

The leaves are tender and cook down quickly, similar to spinach.

The stems, which come in vibrant shades of red, yellow, pink, and orange, are crisp and juicy, almost like celery but with a milder flavor.

You can cook the stems and leaves together, or you can cook them separately for different textures.

The key is to remember that the stems take a little longer to soften than the leaves.

So when you’re figuring out what to do with rainbow swiss chard, always think about that simple timing difference.

 

1. The Classic Sauté with Garlic and Olive Oil

One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to use rainbow swiss chard is in a quick sauté.

Start by washing the leaves thoroughly and chopping the stems into small pieces.

Heat some olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and add sliced garlic.

Toss in the stems first and let them cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.

Then, add the chopped leaves and stir until they wilt down, which only takes a couple of minutes.

Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

This method is a fantastic answer to what to do with rainbow swiss chard when you’re short on time.

 

2. Rainbow Swiss Chard in Soups and Stews

Rainbow swiss chard is a wonderful addition to any soup or stew.

You can chop the leaves and stems and throw them in during the last ten minutes of cooking.

The leaves will soften and absorb the flavors of your broth.

The stems will retain a nice bite, adding a pleasant texture to every spoonful.

Whether you’re making a white bean soup, a minestrone, or a simple chicken noodle soup, rainbow swiss chard works beautifully.

It’s a great way to bulk up a meal with extra nutrients without overpowering the other ingredients.

 

3. Use It in Breakfast Dishes

If you’re wondering what to do with rainbow swiss chard in the morning, try adding it to your eggs.

You can sauté a handful of chopped chard and fold it into scrambled eggs or an omelet.

It also works wonders in a frittata or a crustless quiche.

The slightly bitter taste of the leaves pairs perfectly with the richness of eggs and cheese.

Plus, the colorful stems make your breakfast plate look absolutely gorgeous.

You can also add it to a breakfast hash with potatoes and onions for a hearty start to your day.

 

4. Rainbow Swiss Chard in Pasta and Grains

Another fantastic way to enjoy this vegetable is by mixing it into pasta dishes or grain bowls.

You can sauté rainbow swiss chard with some cherry tomatoes and garlic, then toss it with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of parmesan.

The leaves cling to the pasta nicely, and the stems add a satisfying crunch.

For a grain bowl, simply chop the chard and mix it into warm quinoa, farro, or rice.

The heat from the grains will slightly wilt the leaves, making them tender and easy to eat.

This is a simple and nutritious way to answer what to do with rainbow swiss chard for lunch or dinner.

 

5. Don’t Forget About the Stems

Many people discard the stems, but that’s a mistake when you’re thinking about what to do with rainbow swiss chard.

These stems are packed with flavor and can be used in so many ways.

You can pickle them like you would cucumbers or radishes for a tangy, crunchy snack.

You can also chop them finely and add them to salads for extra texture.

Another idea is to roast them with a little olive oil and salt until they become tender and slightly caramelized.

If you want to get creative, you can even puree the cooked stems into a sauce or a dip.

The possibilities are truly endless when you embrace the whole plant.

 

How to Prepare and Store Rainbow Swiss Chard

Proper preparation and storage are key to making rainbow swiss chard last longer and taste better.

If you’re new to this green, here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind.

 

1. Washing and Drying

Rainbow swiss chard can hold a lot of dirt and grit, so a thorough wash is essential.

Fill a large bowl with cold water and swish the leaves around to loosen any debris.

Let the leaves sit for a minute so the dirt sinks to the bottom, then lift the chard out gently.

Repeat this process if the water looks particularly dirty.

After washing, dry the leaves well using a salad spinner or by patting them with a clean kitchen towel.

 

2. Storing for Freshness

To keep rainbow swiss chard fresh for up to a week, wrap the unwashed bunch in a damp paper towel.

Place it inside a plastic bag or an airtight container and store it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.

Avoid washing the chard before storing it, as excess moisture can cause it to spoil faster.

If the leaves start to look a little limp, you can revive them by trimming the stems and placing them in a glass of water like you would with cut flowers.

 

So, What To Do With Rainbow Swiss Chard?

Rainbow swiss chard is one of the most adaptable and rewarding vegetables to cook with.

So what to do with rainbow swiss chard? You can sauté it simply, add it to soups, mix it into breakfast dishes, toss it with pasta, and so much more.

Don’t forget to use the beautiful stems, as they are just as valuable as the leaves.

With these ideas in your back pocket, you’ll never be stuck wondering how to use this vibrant green again.

From quick weeknight dinners to elaborate weekend brunches, rainbow swiss chard is ready to shine on your plate.