Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Orzo Pasta
This simple and hearty dish combines tender Swiss chard, creamy cannellini beans, and delicate orzo pasta in a light garlic-infused chicken broth.
It’s wholesome, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes — ideal for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Why You’ll Love It:
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber, plant protein, and leafy greens.
Quick and Easy: Uses pantry staples and comes together fast.
Comforting & Light: Feels like comfort food without being too heavy.
One-Pot Option: Minimal cleanup if you cook orzo in the same pot.
Key Ingredients Overview:
Swiss Chard: Earthy, slightly bitter greens that turn silky and tender when simmered.
Cannellini Beans: Creamy white beans that add protein and heartiness.
Orzo Pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavor and adds texture.
Chicken Broth: Forms the savory base of the dish (substitute veggie broth if preferred).
Garlic & Olive Oil: Aromatic and essential for infusing richness into every bite.
Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Orzo Pasta
Ingredients:
1 bunch Swiss chard, cleaned and chopped (leaves and stems separated)
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 box (4 cups) chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
1 cup orzo pasta, cooked according to package instructions
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice for serving
Instructions:
Cook the orzo:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook orzo according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
Sauté the garlic:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).
Add broth and chard:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Stir in the chopped Swiss chard stems first (they take longer to cook), then add the leaves.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the chard is wilted and tender.
Add beans and orzo:
Stir in the cannellini beans and cooked orzo.
Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat everything through and let the flavors meld.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
Top with red pepper flakes, a drizzle of olive oil, or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
(Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings):
Calories: ~310 | Protein: ~12g | Fat: ~9g | Carbohydrates: ~42g | Fiber: ~6g | Sodium: ~500mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does Swiss chard taste like?
Swiss chard has a mildly bitter and earthy flavor that softens beautifully when cooked.
Can I use other greens instead of chard?
Yes! Kale, spinach, or collard greens are good alternatives—adjust cook time accordingly.
Is this dish vegetarian or vegan?
It’s vegetarian if made with vegetable broth and vegan if using a plant-based broth and skipping cheese.
Can I serve it as soup?
Absolutely. Just increase the broth amount and serve with crusty bread for a brothy bowl.
Does it store well?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to refresh the texture.
Do I need to cook orzo separately?
Not necessarily. You can cook it directly in the broth—just keep an eye on liquid levels and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Can I use canned beans?
Yes, canned cannellini beans work great. Just rinse and drain them before adding.
How do I clean Swiss chard properly?
Rinse the leaves and stems thoroughly under cold water to remove grit. You can soak them briefly if needed.
Should I peel the garlic?
Yes—mince it fresh for the most flavor. If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! The flavors improve over time. Just be sure to reheat gently and refresh with a bit of lemon or fresh herbs before serving.