Swiss Chard with Bacon And Cannellini Beans Recipe

This was a regular on our table growing up. Swiss chard cooked down with bacon and beans until everything was soft, savory, and comforting. It’s the kind of side that’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but perfect alongside a simple main.

I didn’t think much of it as a kid, but looking back, this was probably my introduction to loving vegetables. Familiar, unfussy, and very much a family staple, it’s a side dish that features regularly at my dinner table.

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Swiss Chard with Bacon & Cannellini Beans

(Serves 4 as a side)

Ingredients

• Olive oil

• 150g bacon or pancetta, cut into small pieces

• 1 large bunch Swiss chard

  • leaves chopped into roughly 2-inch pieces

  • ribs finely sliced

• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

• Salt

• Small splash of water

Method

1. Separate the Swiss chard leaves from the ribs. Finely slice the ribs and roughly chop the leaves into 2-inch pieces. Set aside.

2. Heat a glug of olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until the fat renders and the pieces are lightly golden.

3. Add the sliced Swiss chard ribs to the pan. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.

4. Add the chopped chard leaves and a pinch of salt. Stir until the leaves wilt down.

5. Add the cannellini beans and a small splash of water.

6. Lower the heat, cover loosely, and let everything simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, until the beans are soft and the flavors have come together.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.

Serve warm, with a drizzle of olive oil if you like.