Swiss Chard Spaghetti with Mustard Cream Sauce

This Swiss Chard Spaghetti with Mustard Cream Sauce recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors. Swiss chard's earthy flavor melds seamlessly with the rich, tangy mustard cream sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and tantalizingly complex.

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Photos of Swiss Chard Spaghetti with Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe

Swiss chard might not be a regular in your vegetable crisper. This leafy green is recognized by its vibrant colored stems and dark green leaves. When shopping, look for swiss chard with fresh, vibrant leaves and no signs of wilting. The Dijon mustard is another key ingredient, readily available in the supermarket. It provides a tangy kick to the cream sauce.

Ingredients for Swiss Chard Spaghetti with Mustard Cream Sauce

Spaghetti: A staple in Italian cuisine, it acts as the base of this dish.

Butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.

Onion: Provides a sweet and savory base to the sauce.

Swiss chard: A leafy green vegetable, which brings an earthy flavor to the dish.

Garlic clove: Adds a punch of flavor.

Heavy cream: Gives the sauce a creamy texture.

Dijon mustard: It's tangy flavor balances the richness of the cream.

Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Tomatoes: Adds a refreshing, sweet flavor.

Ground nutmeg: Offers a warm, sweet spice to the sauce.

Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty finish to the dish.

One reader, Cazzie Mabry says:

This swiss chard spaghetti with mustard cream sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a delightful surprise, and the creamy texture is simply divine. The combination of chard, mustard, and cream creates a unique and delicious dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. Highly recommended!

Cazzie Mabry

Techniques Required for Swiss Chard Spaghetti With Mustard Cream Sauce

How to cook spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in lightly salted water for about 12 minutes until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.

How to sauté vegetables: Melt butter in a deep frying pan over low heat. Cook onions, chard stalks, and garlic, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 10 minutes until soft. Add chard leaves and the rest of the butter, cover, and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the chard is soft and wilted.

How to make mustard cream sauce: Combine cream and mustard in a bowl, then season with salt and pepper. Add the mixture to the chard in the pan and simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes are soft. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

How to combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the vegetable sauce and stir to combine.

How to serve: Serve the swiss chard spaghetti with mustard cream sauce with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top.

How To Make Swiss Chard Spaghetti and Mustard Cream Sauce

Swiss chard spaghetti lends a nice crunch and softly wilt textures in every creamy and flavorful bite — an easy weeknight meal ready in less than an hour!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 33 minutes

Total: 48 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozspaghetti,(1 package)
3tbspbutter,divided
½onion,chopped
1bunchred swiss chard,stems trimmed and finely chopped, leaves coarsely chopped
1garlic clove,minced
½cupheavy cream,or as needed
3tspDijon mustard,or more to taste
salt and pepper,to taste
2medium tomatoes,diced
1pinchground nutmeg
2tbspparmesan cheese,grated, or to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti in boiling water, stirring occasionally for about 12 minutes until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain.
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a deep frying pan over low heat. Cook onions, chard stalks, and garlic, stirring, for about 5 to 10 minutes until soft.
Add chard leaves and the rest of the butter. Cover and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the chard is soft and wilted.
Combine cream and mustard in a bowl then season with salt and pepper. Add to chard in the pan and simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until tomatoes are soft. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Add drained pasta to vegetable sauce and stir to combine. Serve with Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 904.40kcal
Fat: 44.48g
Saturated Fat: 26.66g
Trans Fat: 0.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.04g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.50g
Carbohydrates: 104.93g
Fiber: 10.06g
Sugar: 11.92g
Protein: 25.58g
Cholesterol: 133.63mg
Sodium: 1383.88mg
Calcium: 328.51mg
Potassium: 1548.20mg
Iron: 6.37mg
Vitamin A: 1155.09µg
Vitamin C: 87.96mg

Technique Tip for Making Swiss Chard Spaghetti With Mustard Cream Sauce

When preparing the Swiss chard, separate the leaves from the stalks as they have different cooking times. The stalks need a bit more time to soften, which is why they are added to the pan first. This ensures that both the leaves and stalks reach the perfect texture at the same time. Additionally, when adding the Dijon mustard to the cream, whisk it well to ensure it's fully incorporated. This will give your sauce a smooth and consistent flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Spaghetti Recipe

Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.

Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables and sauce to save time and make the cooking process more efficient.

Prep in advance: Wash and chop the vegetables ahead of time to cut down on prep time when you start cooking.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen tools such as a food processor or mandoline to quickly and uniformly chop vegetables, saving time and effort.

Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area tidy and organized to easily access ingredients and tools, reducing time spent searching for items.

Substitute Ingredients For Swiss Chard Spaghetti with Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe

spaghetti - Substitute with linguine: Linguine is a good substitute for spaghetti as it has a similar texture and shape, and will work well with the mustard cream sauce.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, and it adds a delicious flavor to the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to onions and will work well in the mustard cream sauce.
red swiss chard - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for swiss chard, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.
garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, adding the desired garlic flavor to the dish.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can be used as a substitute for dijon mustard, providing a slightly different texture and flavor to the sauce.
tomatoes - Substitute with red bell peppers: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for tomatoes, adding a sweet and vibrant flavor to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor to the dish.

Presenting Swiss Chard Spaghetti With Mustard Cream Sauce

Elevate the plating: Create a visually stunning presentation by carefully arranging the swiss chard spaghetti on the plate, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with precision: Add a final touch of elegance by garnishing the dish with delicate microgreens and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for a pop of color and flavor.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element such as toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts to provide a delightful contrast to the creamy mustard sauce and tender spaghetti.
Emphasize the colors: Highlight the vibrant hues of the dish by using a white or neutral-colored plate to allow the rich green of the swiss chard and the bright red of the tomatoes to stand out.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by strategically leaving areas of the plate bare, allowing the dish to take center stage and exude sophistication.
Attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the plate to ensure a clean presentation, demonstrating precision and care in every aspect of the dish.
Artful drizzling: Use a steady hand to elegantly drizzle the mustard cream sauce over the spaghetti, creating a visually appealing pattern that adds a touch of artistry to the plate.
Balance and symmetry: Aim for a balanced composition, ensuring that the elements are thoughtfully arranged to create a visually pleasing and harmonious presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Swiss Chard Spaghetti

Large pot: Use to boil the spaghetti.
Deep frying pan: Used to cook the onions, chard, and garlic.
Bowl: Used to combine the cream and mustard.
Colander: Used to drain the cooked spaghetti.
Grater: Use to grate the parmesan cheese.
Knife: Used to chop the onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
Cutting board: Used as a surface for chopping the vegetables.
Stove: Used to cook the pasta and sauté the vegetables.
Spatula: Used to stir the pasta and sauce together.
Lid: Used to cover the frying pan while cooking the chard and tomatoes.

Storing and Freezing Swiss Chard Spaghetti With Mustard Cream Sauce

To store leftover swiss chard spaghetti with mustard cream sauce, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the spaghetti dish. Transfer the cooled spaghetti to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen swiss chard spaghetti with mustard cream sauce can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the spaghetti overnight in the refrigerator.
Once thawed, reheat the spaghetti in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little extra cream or milk to help reconstitute the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out.
If you prefer, you can also reheat the frozen spaghetti directly from the freezer. Place the frozen spaghetti in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until heated through. Stir occasionally and add extra liquid if needed to prevent drying out.

How to Reheat Leftover Swiss Chard Spaghetti With Mustard Cream Sauce

Reheat the leftover swiss chard spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover spaghetti in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk to help revive the mustard cream sauce. Stir gently and continuously until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
If the mustard cream sauce has thickened too much during storage, gradually add small amounts of heavy cream or milk while reheating, stirring constantly to incorporate and achieve the desired consistency.
To maintain the vibrant colors of the swiss chard and tomatoes, avoid overcooking the leftovers during reheating. Heat just until the pasta and vegetables are warmed through.
For a crispy texture, transfer the reheated spaghetti to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese, and broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to brighten up the flavors and add a zesty kick to the reheated dish.
If the leftover swiss chard spaghetti seems dry after reheating, drizzle with a touch of olive oil or butter to help moisten the pasta and enhance the overall texture and flavor.

Interesting Fact About Swiss Chard Spaghetti

Swiss chard is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, K, and C, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron. It's a versatile leafy green that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups.

Is This Spaghetti Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

This swiss chard spaghetti with mustard cream sauce recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, including swiss chard, spaghetti, and dijon mustard, are generally affordable and easily accessible. The addition of heavy cream and parmesan cheese may slightly increase the cost, but the dish is still budget-friendly. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable option for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Is This Spaghetti Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The swiss chard spaghetti with mustard cream sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients like swiss chard, which is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium. The recipe also includes tomatoes, providing additional vitamins and antioxidants. However, the use of heavy cream, butter, and parmesan cheese adds significant amounts of saturated fat and calories to the dish, which can be detrimental to overall health if consumed in excess.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, to reduce the saturated fat content
Use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients
Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with a healthier fat source, such as olive oil
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish, such as adding more swiss chard or other nutrient-dense vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini
Use a reduced-fat parmesan cheese or sprinkle it sparingly to minimize the added fat and calories

Editor's Opinion on Swiss Chard Spaghetti With Mustard Cream Sauce

This Swiss chard spaghetti with mustard cream sauce recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender spaghetti pairs perfectly with the creamy mustard sauce, while the addition of Swiss chard and tomatoes brings a fresh and vibrant element to the dish. The use of nutmeg adds a warm and aromatic note, elevating the overall flavor profile. This dish is a wonderful way to incorporate more greens into your diet while enjoying a satisfying and indulgent meal. The recipe is well-balanced and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Enhance Your Swiss Chard Spaghetti with Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: A warm and crispy garlic bread would complement the creamy swiss chard spaghetti perfectly. The garlic flavor will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, would add a colorful and nutritious element to the meal.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits would provide a light and fruity contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the swiss chard spaghetti.

Chocolate Mousse: For a decadent dessert option, a silky and indulgent chocolate mousse would be a delightful way to end the meal on a sweet note.

Similar Recipes to Swiss Chard Spaghetti With Mustard Cream Sauce

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl: Roast a variety of vegetables and toss with cooked quinoa for a healthy and filling meal.

Balsamic Glazed Salmon: Marinate salmon in a balsamic glaze and grill for a flavorful and nutritious main dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mix chia seeds with coconut milk and diced mango for a delicious and refreshing dessert or snack.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Swiss Chard Spaghetti

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. The savory filling and tender mushroom caps make for a perfect bite-sized appetizer.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy and flavorful spinach and artichoke dip. This classic appetizer is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

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

Why trust this Swiss Chard Spaghetti with Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing the vibrant swiss chard and the rich, velvety mustard cream sauce. The combination of fresh tomatoes and the subtle hint of nutmeg adds depth to the dish, while the addition of parmesan cheese brings a satisfying umami note. The careful cooking process ensures that the spaghetti is perfectly al dente, providing a delightful contrast to the tender chard. With the harmonious blend of ingredients and the meticulous cooking instructions, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience.

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FAQ:

What can I substitute for Swiss chard if I can't find it?

If you can't find Swiss chard, you can substitute it with spinach, kale, or collard greens. These leafy greens will provide a similar texture and flavor to the dish.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Linguine, fettuccine, or penne would work well with this mustard cream sauce and vegetable combination.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the butter and use a plant-based alternative. For a vegan version, use a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and vegan parmesan cheese.

Can I prepare the mustard cream sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mustard cream sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use, gently reheat it in a saucepan before tossing it with the pasta and vegetables.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the mustard cream sauce?

If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of Dijon mustard. Conversely, if you enjoy a bit more heat, you can add a touch more mustard to suit your taste preferences.