Swiss Chard Frittata Recipe

Frittata can be a perfect solution for a quick meal. This Swiss Chard Frittata recipe can be a delightful way to incorporate greens into your diet. It's a simple dish with wholesome ingredients like Swiss chard and onions, combined with eggs and cheese for a savory blend of flavors.

Photos of Swiss Chard Frittata Recipe

Swiss chard might not be a regular on your grocery list. It's a leafy green vegetable that's high in vitamins A, C, and K. The leaves and stems are both edible. The leaves are slightly more bitter than spinach, but they wilt down beautifully in a frittata. The stems get tender and sweet when cooked.

Swiss Chard Frittata Ingredients

Eggs: The protein base of the frittata. It binds all the ingredients together.

Egg whites: Add extra protein without the fat and cholesterol of egg yolks.

Swiss cheese: Adds a mild and nutty flavor.

Swiss chard: High in vitamins and gives the frittata a hearty texture and a pop of color.

White onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor when caramelized.

Light butter: Used to sauté the onions and chard, adding a creamy flavor.

Salt and fresh pepper: Enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

One reader, June Glaze says:

This swiss chard frittata recipe is a game-changer! The combination of chard, onions, and cheese creates a burst of flavors. The texture is perfect, and the dish is so satisfying. It's now a staple in my brunch menu. Highly recommend trying it out!

June Glaze

Techniques Required for Making a Swiss Chard Frittata

Preheat oven to 400 degrees f: Preheat the oven to the specified temperature before starting the cooking process.

Dice the chard stems: Cut the chard stems into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture in the frittata.

Slice the chard leaves into ribbons: Roll the chard leaves and slice them into thin, uniform ribbons to incorporate them evenly into the frittata.

Caramelize the onions: Slowly cook the onions over medium heat until they become translucent, then continue cooking until they caramelize, adding a rich, sweet flavor to the frittata.

Cook the frittata in the oven: After the bottom and edges of the frittata have set on the stovetop, transfer the skillet to the oven to finish cooking the frittata through.

How To Make Swiss Chard Frittata

This swiss chard frittata recipe is a great breakfast fare. It has caramelized onions, and generous portions of cheese, egg, and swiss chard.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4eggs,large
4egg whites,large
¼cupSwiss Cheese,grated
6½cupsSwish Chard,washed well
2cupswhite onion,sliced thin
2tsplight butter
salt and fresh pepper,to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
In a medium bowl combine eggs, egg whites, cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
Separate the stems from the leaves of the chard.
Dice the stem into small pieces.
Roll the leaves up and slice into thin ribbons, about an ⅛-inch thick.
Heat a 10-inch skillet on low heat; melt half of the butter and add the onions with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Slowly cook the onions, stirring occasionally for about 8 to 10 minutes or until the onions become translucent.
Bring the heat up to medium and cook until the onions caramelize. Set the onions aside.
Increase the heat to medium-high, add remaining butter and add the chard stems.
Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the chard leaves to the pan and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes or until wilted.
Season with salt and pepper.
Reduce heat to low; pour egg mixture into the skillet and add caramelized onions, salt and pepper and mix well to blend.
Reduce heat to low and cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until the edges set.
Once the bottom and edges set, place in the oven and bake for about 4 to 5 minutes or until completely set through.
Remove from the oven and place a dish over the pan; flip onto the plate.
Cut into wedges and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 108.65kcal
Fat: 5.29g
Saturated Fat: 2.45g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.72g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.67g
Carbohydrates: 7.35g
Fiber: 1.64g
Sugar: 3.00g
Protein: 8.39g
Cholesterol: 113.35mg
Sodium: 339.74mg
Calcium: 95.74mg
Potassium: 305.11mg
Iron: 1.40mg
Vitamin A: 184.66µg
Vitamin C: 15.65mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Swiss Chard Frittata

When working with Swiss chard, it's important to remember that the stems and leaves cook at different rates. Always separate the stems from the leaves and start cooking the stems first as they take longer to soften. Adding the leaves too early can result in them becoming overcooked and losing their vibrant color. Also, when caramelizing onions, patience is key. Cook them slowly on low heat to bring out their natural sweetness without burning them.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing a Frittata

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and equipment needed before starting the cooking process to save time and minimize interruptions.

Multitask: Look for opportunities to multitask, such as chopping vegetables while waiting for the onions to caramelize, to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Use pre-washed greens: Opt for pre-washed Swiss chard to eliminate the time-consuming step of washing and drying the greens, streamlining the preparation process.

Prep in advance: Consider prepping the Swiss chard and caramelizing the onions ahead of time, allowing you to quickly assemble the frittata when ready to cook.

One-pan cooking: Choose a skillet that can transition from stovetop to oven to minimize the number of dishes and save time on cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Swiss Chard Frittata Recipe

swiss chard - Substitute with spinach: Spinach has a similar texture and flavor profile to swiss chard, making it a suitable substitute in a frittata recipe.
swiss cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere cheese has a similar nutty and slightly sweet flavor to swiss cheese, making it a great substitute in a frittata recipe.

Best Way to Present a Swiss Chard Frittata

Elevate the frittata with a garnish: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of the frittata for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Plate with precision: Carefully arrange the frittata wedges on the plate, ensuring that each piece is presented neatly and with attention to detail.
Incorporate a complementary sauce: Drizzle a house-made roasted red pepper sauce or herb-infused olive oil around the frittata for an added layer of flavor and sophistication.
Utilize edible flowers for a delicate touch: Place a few edible nasturtiums or pansies on the plate to bring a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note to the dish.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a porcelain plate or earthenware platter to present the frittata, ensuring that the vessel complements the colors and textures of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making a Frittata

Medium bowl: A medium-sized bowl is ideal for mixing and combining ingredients for the frittata.
Skillet: A skillet is used for cooking the onions, chard stems, and chard leaves before adding the egg mixture.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the frittata to set the eggs and finish the cooking process.
Knife: A knife is necessary for slicing the chard stems and leaves into small pieces and ribbons.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the chard and onions.
Whisk: A whisk is used to thoroughly combine the eggs, egg whites, cheese, salt, and pepper in the bowl.
Spatula: A spatula is essential for flipping and serving the frittata once it's cooked.
Oven-safe dish: An oven-safe dish is used to cover the skillet and flip the frittata onto a plate after baking.
Stove: The stove is used for cooking the onions, chard stems, and chard leaves in the skillet.

How to Store and Freeze a Swiss Chard Frittata

Let the frittata cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the frittata tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, wrap the cooled frittata tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Label the package with the date and contents.
Frozen frittata will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, remove the frittata from the packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the frittata in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
If reheating a frozen frittata, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Leftover frittata can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a great option for packed lunches or quick snacks.

How to Reheat Frittata Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover frittata on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will help prevent the top from burning while the inside warms up.
For a quicker method, use your microwave. Cut the frittata into individual portions and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the size of the portion and the power of your microwave. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the eggs to become rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, this is a great option for reheating smaller portions of frittata. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the frittata slice on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges.
For a stovetop method, place a slice of frittata in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the pan with a lid and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the bottom is crispy and the inside is warm. Flip the frittata and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side.
If you want to add some extra flavor and moisture to your leftover frittata, try steaming it. Place the frittata in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help keep the frittata moist and prevent it from drying out.

Random Fact About Swiss Chard Frittatas

Swiss chard is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, K, and C, as well as minerals like magnesium and potassium. It's a versatile leafy green that can be used in a variety of dishes, adding both flavor and nutrition.

Is Making a Swiss Chard Frittata Economical for Home Cooking?

This swiss chard frittata recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Swiss chard is an affordable and nutritious leafy green, and the addition of eggs and cheese makes it a budget-friendly meal. With a rating of 8/10, this dish offers a balance of cost and nutrition. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an economical choice for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Is This Frittata Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Swiss chard frittata recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish. Here are some reasons why:

It uses a combination of whole eggs and egg whites, which reduces the overall cholesterol content while maintaining protein.
Swiss chard is a nutrient-dense leafy green, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium.
The recipe uses a minimal amount of light butter, which helps keep the saturated fat content low.
Onions provide additional flavor and nutrients, such as vitamin C and dietary fiber.
The use of Swiss cheese adds flavor and a small amount of protein and calcium, without significantly increasing the fat content.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of Swiss cheese or replace it with a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella or feta.
Use a non-stick skillet to further reduce the need for butter or oil.
Add more vegetables to the frittata, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Serve the frittata with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded, balanced meal.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like basil, thyme, or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor without adding extra calories or fat.

Editor's Thoughts on This Swiss Chard Frittata Recipe

The Swiss chard frittata recipe is a delightful and nutritious dish that beautifully combines the earthy flavors of Swiss chard with the richness of eggs and cheese. The caramelized onions add a sweet depth of flavor, while the chard brings a lovely, vibrant color to the dish. The cooking method ensures a perfect texture, with a creamy interior and a slightly crispy edge. This frittata is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It's a wonderful way to showcase the flavors of fresh, seasonal produce in a simple and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Swiss Chard Frittata Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus spears topped with a garlic parmesan crust for a flavorful and crunchy side dish.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for a delicious and elegant side dish.

Honey Sriracha Roasted Carrots: Tender roasted carrots coated in a spicy and sweet honey sriracha glaze for a unique and flavorful side dish.

Alternative Recipes Similar to a Swiss Chard Frittata

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Balsamic Glazed Salmon: This flavorful salmon dish is marinated in a tangy balsamic glaze and then grilled to perfection, creating a delicious and healthy main course.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in this creamy and tropical chia pudding, made with fresh mango and coconut milk for a refreshing and guilt-free dessert option.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with a Frittata

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a delightful start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil creates a burst of fresh flavors in every bite. It's a simple yet elegant way to kick off a meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm, comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy, buttery oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Swiss Chard Frittata Recipe:

This swiss chard frittata recipe is a trustworthy choice for several reasons. Firstly, the combination of swiss chard and eggs provides a nutritious and flavorful base. Additionally, the inclusion of swiss cheese adds a rich and creamy texture, enhancing the overall taste. The step-by-step instructions ensure that the dish is prepared with precision, resulting in a perfectly cooked frittata. The use of caramelized onions further elevates the flavor profile, adding a hint of sweetness. Lastly, the incorporation of fresh pepper and light butter guarantees a well-balanced and delicious final product.

Want to share your own Swiss Chard Frittata recipe or discuss tips for making the perfect frittata? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese in this frittata?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese in this frittata. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or feta.

Can I substitute the swiss chard with a different leafy green?

Absolutely! You can substitute the swiss chard with spinach, kale, or any other leafy green of your choice. Just be mindful of the cooking time as it may vary slightly with different greens.

Can I make this frittata ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this frittata ahead of time. It's a great make-ahead dish for breakfast or brunch. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I add other vegetables to the frittata?

Of course! You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or tomatoes to the frittata for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them before adding the eggs.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can use olive oil instead of butter if you prefer. It's a great way to make the frittata lighter and healthier while adding a delicious flavor to the dish.