Garlic & lemon swiss chard with chickpeas

This delicious dish is naturally vegan and can be served as a light main paired with some grains or spooned over toasted sourdough. It can also accompany other dishes as a side. Add a dollop of vegan yogurt or tahini drizzle for richness

Ingredients

• 1 large bunch Swiss chard (about 250–300g)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tin (400g) chickpeas, drained & rinsed
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional but lovely)
• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp water or vegetable stock
• Optional: toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds for garnish

Prep

Wash the Swiss chard thoroughly and separate the stems from the leaves. Chop stems into small pieces and roughly chop leaves.

Method

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped chard stems and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Stir in garlic, paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute (don’t burn the garlic).
4. Add chickpeas and cook for another 3-4 minutes until warmed through.
5. Add the chard leaves and the water/stock. Cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Turn off heat and stir in lemon juice.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.