Are you ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance? This garlicky swiss chard and chickpeas recipe is about to become your new obsession! Packed with vibrant flavors, nutritional powerhouse ingredients, and a punch of Mediterranean magic, this dish proves that healthy eating can be absolutely delicious. In just 20 minutes, you'll create a meal that's not only quick and easy but will have everyone at the table begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch swiss chard, chopped
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon juice for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the swiss chard thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water and chop the leaves and stems into bite-sized pieces.
- Open the can of chickpeas, pour them into a colander, and rinse them under cold water to remove any excess sodium and canning liquid. Allow them to drain well.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet, stirring them into the garlic and oil for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.
- Next, add the chopped swiss chard to the skillet. Stir well to coat the leaves in the garlic and oil mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chard is wilted and tender.
- Once the chard is cooked down, add the drained chickpeas to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the garlicky swiss chard and chickpeas. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot as a side dish or over grains for a complete meal. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired garlicky swiss chard and chickpeas!
Tips
- Washing Swiss Chard: Take extra time to thoroughly clean the chard, as it can often harbor dirt between its leaves. Separate the stems from the leaves and wash each part carefully.
- Garlic Management: Use fresh garlic and chop or mince it just before cooking to maximize its flavor. Watch the heat carefully to prevent burning, which can make garlic bitter.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or tofu, or serve over quinoa or brown rice for a more substantial meal.
- Maximize Flavor: Let the chickpeas sit in the skillet a bit longer to develop a slight crispiness and absorb more of the garlic and spice flavors.
- Freshness is Key: Always add fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the entire dish and add a zesty finish.
- Storage Tip: This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be easily reheated in a skillet or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
