Description
A refreshing and simple Swiss chard salad featuring crisp apples, crunchy pecans, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic dressing. Perfect as a light side dish that combines vibrant textures and flavors with minimal prep and no cooking required.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 large bunch Swiss chard (red, green, or rainbow)
- 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup pecans
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 a lemon, juice only
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make dressing: Add olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to a small jar or bowl. Shake or whisk vigorously until the ingredients are well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare Swiss chard: Thoroughly wash the Swiss chard leaves, then remove the thick bottom stems. You can either discard the entire stem or keep the thinner parts for added texture and color. Stack several leaves, roll them tightly, and slice crosswise to create bite-sized pieces.
- Slice apple and grate cheese: Cut the apple into thin, bite-sized slices. If your Parmesan is not yet grated, grate it fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Assemble salad: Place the chopped Swiss chard in a large serving bowl or plate. Layer on the sliced apples, pecans, and grated Parmesan evenly over the greens.
- Toss and serve: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure an even coating of dressing on all components. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer flavor compared to pre-grated options.
- Choose a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp to add a sweet crunch.
- The salad is best served fresh to maintain texture and freshness of the chard and apple.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding.
- You can omit the stems entirely if you prefer a more delicate salad texture.
