If you’re looking for a light, healthy recipe perfect for any occasion, the chard pie is the one for you! Very easy to prepare, this versatile dish can be served as an appetizer or a light main course. Chard, rich in vitamins and minerals, is great for your health, and with the addition of bread and Grana Padano, it becomes a tasty and satisfying dish. Ideal for a buffet, an outdoor picnic, or simply for a family dinner.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Inexpensive
- Preparation time: 20 Minutes
- Cooking methods: Boiling, Electric oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Autumn, Winter
Ingredients
- Chard
- Bread
- Grana Padano (for vegetarians and vegans, vegetarian Grana)
- Olive oil
- Breadcrumbs
- Salt
Preparation
Start by cleaning and washing the chard thoroughly. Blanch them in salted water for a few minutes until they are al dente, then drain and let them cool. This step helps retain the vegetable’s color and nutritional properties.
Soak the bread slices in water for a few minutes so they soften well. Once soaked, squeeze them and place them in a large bowl. This will make the mixture softer and easier to work with.
Add the cooled and chopped chard to the bowl with the bread. Drizzle with a little olive oil and add grated Grana Padano. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. The cheese will add flavor and creaminess to the pie.
Grease molds with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with breadcrumbs. This will help make the outside of the pie crispy and facilitate unmolding.
Fill the molds with the chard and bread mixture, then bake in a preheated oven at 392°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until the surface is golden and crispy. The heat melts the cheese and blends all the flavors.
Once ready, let the pies cool for a few minutes before gently unmolding. Serve them hot or warm for the best result.
Tips
Variations: If you want a vegan version, replace the Grana with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast flakes for a similar flavor. You can also add some chopped garlic for a more pronounced taste.
Single baking dish: If you prefer a single dish, you can bake the entire mixture in one baking dish instead of using molds. In this case, bake for about 25-30 minutes.
Freezing: You can prepare the pies in advance and freeze them. Just cook them completely, let them cool, and then freeze. When you want to eat them, just reheat them in the oven.
Notes
Choose fresh chard: For a more delicate flavor and better texture, choose fresh and not too fibrous chard.
Variable cooking time: If you use larger or smaller molds, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Variations
Adding different cheeses: Try replacing Grana Padano with Pecorino or Caciocavallo for a more intense flavor.
Herbs: For a fresh touch, add herbs like chopped parsley, thyme, or basil.
FAQ – Chard Pie
Can I use another type of vegetable instead of chard?
Yes, you can use spinach or kale, but the cooking might vary slightly.
Can I prepare the pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it the day before and reheat it when serving.
How can I store leftover pies?
Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
The chard pie is a simple, versatile, and flavorful recipe. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a buffet with friends, this dish will always make a great impression. Rich in nutrients and flavors, it’s a delicious way to include vegetables in your daily diet. Try it and be won over by its lightness and goodness!
