Swiss Chard

Well, even the chard resented the cold weather that we've been having.  I'll have to clip off as much as I can.  If it recovers, fantastic.  If it gives up on growing for the winter, that's alright.  It was a good ride.

Photo courtesy of mercedesfromtheeighties

If you're new to chard, then just treat it like you would fresh spinach.  It has more of a peppery bite than spinach, but cooks exactly the same.  I usually give it a very rough chop, and saute it quickly in bacon fat or olive oil.  Like spinach, it wilts down super fast.  Sprinkle a little sea salt and black pepper after you toss it in the pan, and you're good.  It's that easy.  You can also eat chard raw, steam or boil it.
Chard is very healthy for you, and VERY easy to grow. You direct sow the seeds into the soil after all danger of frost is gone.  Give it water.  Give it sun.  In about two months, you'll be clipping leaves for the table. If you're new to gardening, then add easy, forgiving chard to your list of spring plantings!