What To Do With Rainbow Chard

What to do with rainbow chard is a question I get all the time, and the answer is more exciting than you might think.
 
Rainbow chard is one of the most versatile and beautiful leafy greens you can bring into your kitchen.
 
You can do so much with rainbow chard, from quick sautés to hearty gratin dishes, and it’s packed with nutrients.
 
In this post, we’re going to explore exactly what to do with rainbow chard so you never let a bunch wilt in your fridge again.
 
Let’s dig into the colorful world of this amazing vegetable.
 

What To Do With Rainbow Chard: The Simple Truth

The simple truth about what to do with rainbow chard is that you treat it like a superstar cousin of spinach and kale.
 
You can eat rainbow chard raw in salads, but it’s even more delicious when cooked.
 
What to do with rainbow chard often starts with separating the crunchy stems from the tender leaves because they cook at different speeds.
 
The stems are sweet, crisp, and almost celery-like, while the leaves are silky and mild.
 
Knowing this basic split is the first step to mastering what to do with rainbow chard in any recipe.
 

1. Sauté It Like a Pro

The most common answer to what to do with rainbow chard is a simple, garlicky sauté.
 
Heat olive oil in a large pan, toss in chopped stems first, and cook them for a few minutes.
 
Then add the leaves, a pinch of salt, and a few cloves of minced garlic.
 
What to do with rainbow chard after that is just to stir it until the leaves wilt and the stems soften.
 
A splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes at the end transforms it into a perfect side dish.
 

2. Toss It Into Soups and Stews

Another brilliant idea for what to do with rainbow chard is adding it to your favorite soups.
 
The leaves wilt down beautifully into broths, adding color and a mild earthy flavor.
 
What to do with rainbow chard in a soup is to add the chopped stems early with your onions and carrots.
 
Then stir in the shredded leaves during the last five minutes of cooking.
 
This method keeps the texture nice and prevents the chard from turning mushy.
 

3. Bake It Into a Gratin or Casserole

If you’re wondering what to do with rainbow chard for a comforting meal, a gratin is the answer.
 
Blanch the chard quickly, squeeze out excess water, and layer it in a baking dish.
 
What to do with rainbow chard here is to alternate it with a creamy béchamel sauce and plenty of cheese.
 
Bake until golden and bubbly, and you’ve got a rich, satisfying dish that even picky eaters will love.
 
This is one of the best answers to what to do with rainbow chard when you have a big bunch to use up.
 

4. Blend It Into Smoothies or Pesto

For a no-cook option, what to do with rainbow chard includes blending it into smoothies.
 
The mild flavor of chard pairs well with banana, apple, or pineapple.
 
You can also make a vibrant chard pesto by blending the leaves with basil, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan.
 
What to do with rainbow chard pesto is to toss it with pasta or spread it on sandwiches.
 
It’s a sneaky way to add a ton of vitamins to your day without tasting the greens too much.
 

Creative Ways To Use Rainbow Chard Stems

Many people ask what to do with rainbow chard stems specifically because they’re so colorful and thick.
 
You don’t have to toss them, they’re actually a treat.
 
What to do with rainbow chard stems is to pickle them for a tangy, crunchy snack.
 
Just simmer the stems in vinegar, water, sugar, and salt, then jar them up.
 
You can also roast them with olive oil and spices until they’re tender and caramelized.
 
What to do with rainbow chard stems in a stir-fry is simply to slice them thin and cook them first.
 
They hold up beautifully and add a lovely pop of color to any dish.
 

Storage and Prep Tips For Rainbow Chard

Before you decide what to do with rainbow chard, you need to store it properly.
 
Wrap the unwashed chard in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag in the fridge.
 
What to do with rainbow chard right before cooking is to wash it thoroughly, as dirt loves to hide in the ruffled leaves.
 
Dry it well using a salad spinner or a clean kitchen towel.
 
If you have extra, what to do with rainbow chard is to blanch and freeze it for later.
 
This way you can enjoy its goodness for months after the season ends.
 

So, What To Do With Rainbow Chard?

What to do with rainbow chard is really up to your imagination, but the options are endless.
 
You can sauté, soup, gratin, smoothie, or pickle this stunning vegetable with ease.
 
What to do with rainbow chard comes down to honoring its two parts: the stem and the leaf.
 
Cook the stems first, add the leaves last, and you’ll have a perfect texture every time.
 
So next time you see a bunch of rainbow chard at the market, grab it without hesitation.
 
Now you know what to do with rainbow chard, you’ll never waste a single stalk again.
 
Happy cooking, and enjoy every colorful bite.