Friday, June 13, 2008

Farmer's Market Friday: Swiss Chard

Swiss Chard is the true overachiever of the produce section. A leafy green vegetable similar to spinach, chard offers a host of nutritional benefits. It has oodles of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, magnesium, manganese, potassium, iron, vitamin E, and dietary fiber. Plus, it's pretty! It has big curly green leaves and a thick crunchy stalk, which can be bright yellow, orange, white or a gorgeous shade of magenta, depending on the variety.

Swiss chard makes its farmer's market debut in early June and tends to stick around until August. Pick some up this weekend!

Since many people are unfamiliar with chard, I've posted a recipe that features the vegetable below. You can use any color or variety of chard. One of my summer favorites!

Penne with Swiss Chard
Adapted from the Waterpenny Farms Recipe Book

2 c. penne pasta
4 c. swiss chard, chopped
1 (15 oz.) can canellini beans, drained
4 T. olive oil
1/2 c. grated parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, diced

Cook penne in large pot until al dente. Add chopped chard and continue cooking until chard is wilted, about 2 minutes. Drain pasta and chard.

In a large serving bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Add pasta mixture and toss well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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