Chard recipes

Along the coast of the Southern US eating Hoppin' John on New Year's Day is thought to bring a year filled with luck and prosperity. The beans symbolize coins or pennies. Sometimes a penny is added to the pot or can be left under the bowls of Hoppin' John. Greens such as Collards, chard or kale can be added and symbolize the color of money and are said to add to ones wealth in the new year. The day after New Year's Day the leftovers are called "Skippin' Jenny," and further demonstrates one's frugality. A common tradition in the south US is each person at the meal should leave three peas on their plate to ensure the New Year will be filled with Luck, Fortune and Romance. Another tradition holds that counting the number of peas in a serving predicts the amount of luck (or wealth) that will be collected over the next year.

It's the season of Swiss chard and kale. We got lots of these fresh leafy greens from our CSA farm, and I was trying to come out an idea to use them up, surfing the internet, found a recipe in New York Times, it's a chard and feta phyllo tart. Definitely got the inspiration, I used both chard and kale, instead of feta, I used cheddar; and I sauteed some fresh mushrooms and added some toasted pine nuts, which worked very well. Also, I used a pie plate instead of a tart pan, and it was a great success, absolutely flavorful and delicious. The phyllo crust came out flaky and crispy. Have definitely become one of my signature recipes :)

Earthy swiss chard and heirloom tomatoes combined with basil and mozzarella make an awesome one skillet main course.

Any tender green can be used in this recipe. Wilted and sautéed greens are brightened with Indian spices with a touch of creaminess.

These delicious panini is made with whole grain bread, spread with creamy yet tasty white bean spread, topped with swiss chard that's braised in a mixture of broth and wine. It fills you up, gives you all the nutrients you need, and satisfies your tummy.

Rich and creamy shallow poached tender salmon.

This turned out quite nicely, great mix of textures and flavors. If you use store bought salsa and store bought tortilla chips you will want to watch the salt levels.

Sausage & Lentil Soup recipe

This is a great chard recipe, with the onions, very yummy.

There is nothing better than enjoying a warm stew in a cold winter evening.