Creamed Swiss Chard with Lemony Breadcrumbs

A luxurious side dish combining tender Swiss chard and its stems in a rich cream sauce, topped with crispy, lemon-scented breadcrumbs. The contrast of textures and the bright citrus notes make this a sophisticated take on creamed greens.

4 servings
31 min

Ingredients

  • ½ cup torn fresh breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 1 to taste Kosher salt
  • 2 bunches Swiss chard
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 medium shallots
  • 1 to taste Freshly ground black pepper
  • ¾ cup heavy cream

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss breadcrumbs, oil, and lemon zest on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt. Toast, tossing once, until golden brown, 8-10 minutes.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Meanwhile, cook chard leaves in a large pot of boiling salted water until tender, about 1 minute. Drain; transfer to a bowl of ice water to cool. Drain and squeeze well in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots and chard ribs and stems, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring often, until tender, 5-8 minutes. Add cream; bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, stirring often, until thickened, about 4 minutes. Add chard leaves and cook, stirring, until warmed through and coated with cream sauce; season with salt and pepper.

    15 min

  4. 4.

    Top Swiss chard with breadcrumbs just before serving.

    1 min