Swiss Chard with Bacon and Garlic
from ButterYum
makes 2 servings
Ingredients
4 stalks swiss chard, washed
2 strips thick bacon, cut into 1/2-inch slices
1 clove garlic, minced
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar (or more to taste)
Directions
Prepare swiss chard by separating the tender green leaves from the stems; keeping both parts.
Slice stems crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices; slice tender leaves crosswise into 3/4-inch thick strips; keep separate.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, saute the bacon until it reaches your desired level of doneness. I like it to stay a little on the chewy side.
Lower heat and remove bacon from pan; reserve.
Add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the bacon drippings that are leftover in the pan; stir for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell the garlic.
Immediately add the chopped stems and water to the pan; increase heat back to medium-high and stir frequently until most of the water evaporates.
Add the sliced leaves to the pan and stir constantly for about a minute until the color deepens and the leaves wilt a little.
Remove from heat and add the reserved bacon and red wine vinegar; stirring well to combine.
Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.