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

1. Prepare swiss chard by separating the tender green leaves from the stems; keeping both parts.

2. Slice stems crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices; slice tender leaves crosswise into 3/4-inch thick strips; keep separate.

3. 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.

4. Lower heat and remove bacon from pan; reserve.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. Add the sliced leaves to the pan and stir constantly for about a minute until the color deepens and the leaves wilt a little.

8. Remove from heat and add the reserved bacon and red wine vinegar; stirring well to combine.

9. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.