Savory Swiss Chard Delight with Sweet Raisins and Crunchy Pine Nuts
This hearty and flavorful dish transforms humble Swiss chard into a delectable side that dances on your palate. Inspired by a recipe from a well-known fitness trainer, it's an unexpected blend of sweet and savory, thanks to the addition of raisins and toasted pine nuts. While traditional Swiss chard is the star, feel free to substitute it with frozen spinach – a convenient option that you can keep on hand. This recipe delivers a satisfying texture and tastes indulgent, yet remains low in fat, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal. Enjoy this vibrant dish that not only nourishes your body but also elevates your dining experience!
4
Servings
38
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Swiss chard
1 bunch (Torn into medium pieces, tough stems discarded)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (None)
Red onion
1 medium (Thinly sliced)
Raisins
1 tablespoon (Any kind)
Pine nuts
2 tablespoons (Toasted briefly in the pan)
Water
1/4 cup (None)
Salt
To taste (None)
Pepper
To taste (None)
Balsamic vinegar
1 dash (For drizzling before serving)
Instructions
1
Begin by tearing the Swiss chard leaves into medium-sized pieces, discarding any tough stems.
2
In a large saute pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3
Add the thinly sliced red onion to the pan and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent.
4
Increase the heat to medium-high, and then add in the raisins and pine nuts. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the pine nuts to toast lightly and the raisins to plump up.
5
Introduce the Swiss chard to the pan and gently toss it with the other ingredients until well mixed. If using frozen spinach, add it at this point, having already prepped it according to package instructions and ensured it is well-drained.
6
Pour in the water, then immediately cover the pan with a lid. Allow the Swiss chard to wilt for about 3 to 4 minutes. For the pre-cooked spinach, it's crucial not to skip this step, as it enhances the dish's texture and prevents it from becoming gummy.
7
Once wilted, remove the lid, and season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Finish by drizzling a dash of balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar over the top before plating your servings.
Nutrition Information
1.75g
Fat
5.5g
Carbs
1.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Swiss Chard Delight?
It is a hearty side dish featuring Swiss chard, sweet raisins, and crunchy toasted pine nuts.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be made vegan as well.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of Swiss chard?
Yes, frozen spinach is a convenient substitute; just ensure it is well-drained before adding to the pan.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 38 calories per serving.
What type of onion is used in this dish?
The recipe calls for one medium red onion, thinly sliced.
How long should I saute the red onion?
The red onion should be sautéed for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Do I need to toast the pine nuts beforehand?
No, the pine nuts are toasted briefly in the pan with the raisins for 2 to 3 minutes during the cooking process.
How do I prepare the Swiss chard leaves?
Tear the leaves into medium-sized pieces and discard any tough stems.
Why is water added to the pan?
Water is added to create steam, which helps wilt the Swiss chard or spinach quickly.
How long does it take to wilt the Swiss chard?
Once the pan is covered, the Swiss chard should wilt in about 3 to 4 minutes.
Is this recipe low in fat?
Yes, it contains only 1.75g of fat per serving.
What kind of raisins should I use?
Any kind of raisins will work for this recipe.
Can I use red wine vinegar instead of balsamic?
Yes, a dash of red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for balsamic vinegar.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What is the protein content of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 1.25g of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
With 5.5g of carbohydrates per serving, it can fit into many low-carb meal plans.
Should I keep the lid on the pan while wilting the greens?
Yes, covering the pan with a lid is essential to properly steam and wilt the greens.
How do I prevent the dish from becoming gummy if using spinach?
Ensure the spinach is well-drained and do not skip the steaming step in the covered pan.
When do I add the salt and pepper?
Add salt and pepper to taste once the greens have finished wilting and the lid is removed.
What is the purpose of the vinegar at the end?
The vinegar provides a final hit of acidity that balances the sweetness of the raisins.
What inspired this recipe?
This dish was inspired by a recipe from a well-known fitness trainer.
Can I use a different type of oil?
While olive oil is recommended, you can use other cooking oils, though it may change the flavor profile.
Are the pine nuts supposed to be crunchy?
Yes, brief toasting in the pan provides a crunchy texture to the final dish.
What heat setting should I use for wilting?
Use medium-high heat when adding the raisins, nuts, and greens for the wilting process.
Is there any cholesterol in this recipe?
The nutritional data provided does not indicate the presence of cholesterol.
Can I add more raisins if I like it sweeter?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of raisins to your personal taste preference.
Is this a quick recipe for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick recipe and takes very little time to cook.
Does the recipe require many ingredients?
No, it only requires 9 basic ingredients including salt and pepper.
What should the onions look like before adding other ingredients?
They should be soft and translucent, which takes about 5 minutes of sautéing.
How should I serve this dish?
Serve it warm as a vibrant side dish alongside your favorite main course.