Save Warm up with a bowl of this Hearty Swiss Chard Soup, a comforting and wholesome dish that highlights the earthy flavors of fresh greens. This soup combines tender Swiss chard with a light, aromatic broth infused with garlic, making it an ideal choice for a nutritious European-style meal.
Save The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. By sautéing a classic mirepoix and allowing the Swiss chard to simmer slowly, you create a depth of flavor that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying. It is a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal greens in a comforting format.
Ingredients
- Vegetables
- 1 large bunch Swiss chard (about 400 g), stems and leaves separated and chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Broth & Seasoning
- 1.2 liters (5 cups) vegetable broth (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Finish
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in the garlic and Swiss chard stems. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and stems begin to soften.
- Step 3
- Add the Swiss chard leaves, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Step 4
- Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are very tender and flavors meld.
- Step 5
- Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 6
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, always separate the Swiss chard stems from the leaves. The stems act more like a root vegetable and need the extra sautéing time provided in step two to soften properly. If using store-bought broth, be sure to check the label for any hidden gluten or allergens.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a heartier version of this soup, consider adding a 400 g can of drained white beans or a diced potato along with the carrots. To make the recipe completely vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or swap it for a plant-based alternative.
Serviervorschläge
Ladle the hot soup into ceramic bowls and finish each serving with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley. The acidity of the lemon perfectly balances the earthy notes of the chard. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory flavor.
Save This Swiss Chard Soup is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a restorative and delicious meal. Enjoy a bowl today and feel the wholesome benefits of these vibrant greens.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use other leafy greens instead of Swiss chard?
Kale, spinach, or beet greens work beautifully as substitutes. Adjust cooking time slightly as spinach cooks faster than chard, while kale may need a few extra minutes to become tender.
- → How long does this soup keep in the refrigerator?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors often improve after a day as the vegetables continue to meld with the broth.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. The texture may change slightly upon reheating, but the flavor remains excellent. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming gently on the stove.
- → What can I serve alongside this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad complement this light soup beautifully. For a more substantial meal, add white beans directly to the pot or serve with grilled cheese sandwiches.
- → Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Make a batch on Sunday and portion into containers for easy weekday lunches. The soup reheats perfectly in the microwave or on the stovetop.