Creamy Braised Swiss Chard

This post is in sponsorship with Undeniably Dairy     The term “creamy” doesn’t generally come to mind when talking about foods that are good for us. This creamy side dish works, though, because of all the nutrient-rich ingredients involved—Swiss chard, leeks, flaxseeds and dairy in every bite. Just remember it’s a side, not something you should eat all at once.

Ingredients

6 cups Swiss chard, rinsed, destemmed and sliced into ribbons
1 tablespoon butter
1/3 cup chopped leeks
2 teaspoons ground flaxseeds
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup whole milk (or fat level of choice)
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Place a large heavy cooking pot oven over medium heat and add Swiss chard. Cover and cook 5 minutes or until chard wilts; stirring after 2 minutes.
2. Place chard in a colander, and drain excess liquid well, squeezing gently to remove as much extra moisture as possible.
3. Place the pan back over medium heat. Melt butter. When hot, add leeks; sauté 2 minutes.
4. Combine flaxseeds, salt, and nutmeg in small bowl and add to pan, stirring well. Cook 30 seconds.
5. Add milk and cheese (reserving about 2 tablespoons of cheese) stirring with a whisk; cook 1 minute or until thick.
6. Add chard back to the pan; cook 30 seconds or until thoroughly heated.
7. Plate and sprinkle with reserved parmesan. Serve warm.

WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE We love any recipe that pairs nutrient-rich food groups like vegetables and dairy together. In general, vegetables provide fiber and vitamins A and C and dairy provides calcium, vitamin D, B vitamins and high-quality protein.