Tasty ways to to enjoy rainbow chard
What's the story
African rainbow chard is a colorful leafy green vegetable that is quickly becoming a favorite among food lovers. With its bright stems and rich taste, it is a versatile ingredient in many recipes. Not only does it add color to your plate, but it is also loaded with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K. Here are five delightful ways to enjoy African rainbow chard.
Dish 1
Sauteed with garlic and olive oil
Sauteing African rainbow chard with garlic and olive oil is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this leafy green. Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then, add chopped chard leaves and stems, cooking until they are tender but still vibrant in color. This dish can be served as a side or tossed into pasta for added texture.
Dish 2
Added to soups for extra nutrition
Adding African rainbow chard to soups is an excellent way to boost their nutritional value without altering the taste significantly. Its mild flavor complements various broths well. Simply chop the leaves and stems into bite-sized pieces before adding them to your favorite soup recipe during the last few minutes of cooking. The heat will wilt the greens perfectly while retaining their nutrients.
Dish 3
Used in salads for crunch and color
African rainbow chard makes an excellent addition to salads, thanks to its crunchy texture and vibrant hues. Tear or chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces and mix them with other salad ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocados for a refreshing dish. A light vinaigrette dressing enhances the natural flavors of the chard without overpowering them.
Dish 4
Blanched as a quick side dish
Blanching African rainbow chard is an easy way to prepare it as a quick side dish that goes well with many main courses. To blanch, bring water to a boil in a pot, add salt if desired, then add whole leaves of chard for about two minutes until brightened in color but still crisp-tender. Drain immediately under cold running water before serving warm or at room temperature.
Dish 5
Stir-fried with tofu or tempeh
Stir-frying African rainbow chard with tofu or tempeh makes for a protein-rich meal option that's both satisfying and nutritious. Heat oil in wok over high flame; add cubed tofu/tempeh along with sliced chard stems first since they take longer than the leaves themselves. Once cooked through, add the remaining greens. Stir-fry briefly until just wilted, then season accordingly before serving hot atop rice or quinoa bowls if desired.