Chard, or Swiss Chard, has large green crinkly leaves with celery-like stalks. Like spinach, chard is a member of the amaranth family along with beets. Like other green leafy vegetables, chard is highly nutritious, making it a popular component of healthy diets. Chard has been used in cooking for centuries and can also be eaten raw. The taste can be bitter but is much milder when eaten raw. Chard makes an excellent addition to all kinds of dishes from salads to soups to casseroles.
Chard Nutrition Facts
- Chard provides an:
- Excellent source of vitamin K
- Good source of vitamin A and vitamin C
- Magnesium, lutein and zeaxanthin
Growing Information
Chard is most often harvested mechanically, or mowed, when it is considered a “baby” and goes to a processor where it becomes part of a salad mix. It can also be hand harvested, bunched, and packed into cartons in the field and then sold in bulk at the grocery store. It typically takes 55 to 65 days from seed to harvest.
Usage Ideas
Chard makes an excellent addition to all kinds of dishes from salads to soups to casseroles.
Chard Frittata
Just sauté chopped chard leaves in a frying pan with some olive oil until softened. Beat eggs, milk and cheese in a bowl, pour over the chard and stir. Cook lifting edge with rubber spatula, letting runny egg go to the bottom. Let cook, until starting to set. Place in the oven and broil for 3 minutes until top is golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you eat chard?
Chard can be eaten raw or cooked and makes a great addition to soups, salads, stir frys and more! Find more ways to eat chard here.
What does chard taste like?
Chard has a bitter taste but tends to be much more mild when eaten raw. Learn more here.
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