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Swiss Chard with Raisins and Pine Nuts

This vibrant Swiss chard with raisins and pine nuts is a sophisticated vegan side dish that celebrates the earthy flavours of leafy greens. Inspired by Mediterranean cooking, the recipe balances the slight bitterness of the chard with the natural sweetness of golden raisins and the buttery crunch of toasted pine nuts. Using both the multicoloured stems and the tender leaves ensures a variety of textures and a beautiful presentation that brightens up any dinner table.

Packed with nutrients, this healthy vegetable dish is an excellent accompaniment to roasted root vegetables or a hearty grain salad. It is a fantastic way to prepare rainbow chard when it is in season, offering a light yet satisfying component to a plant-based meal. Serve it warm as a festive side or a simple weekday accompaniment for a boost of colour and flavour.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Swiss Chard with Raisins and Pine Nuts

  • 675g Swiss chard (preferably rainbow or red

  • from 2 bunches)

  • 120ml pine nuts (70g)

  • 60ml olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 60ml golden raisins, finely chopped

  • 240ml water

How to make Swiss Chard with Raisins and Pine Nuts

Tear chard leaves from stems, then coarsely chop stems and leaves separately.

Toast nuts in oil in a wide 6- to 8-quart heavy pot over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until golden, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, then transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain and season with salt.

Cook onion in oil remaining in pot, stirring occasionally, 1 minute, then add chard stems and cook, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes. Add raisins and 120ml water and simmer, covered, until stems are softened, about 3 minutes. Add chard leaves and remaining 120ml water and simmer, partially covered, stirring occasionally, until leaves are tender, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve sprinkled with nuts.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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