WHAT IS SWISS CHARD?

This Mediterranean vegetable might not look like a beet, but it’s related to both beets and spinach.  It goes by many names including Silverbeet, Seakale, and even Strawberry Spinach.  The vibrant stems and leaves can be eaten.  But while Swiss chard comes in different colors, they all taste the same.  Growing to over 2 feet in height, the entire plant is edible though the stems are more popular in pickling.  People that are not huge fans of kale sometimes find Swiss chard a preferable alternative.

WHY IS SWISS CHARD GOOD FOR YOU?

This vegetable is dense with phytonutrients, antioxidants and vitamin C while still being low in calories.  But if you are prone to kidney stones or have some brittle bone issues, avoid this vegetable.  It lowers your bodies ability to absorb calcium which among other things causes kidney stones.  Some people have experience mild discomfort when eating too much of it.  So don’t be afraid to mix it into your salad with other greens like Oak Leaf or Romaine.

WHEN IS SWISS CHARD IN SEASON?

This vegetable is a biennial.  It’s in season June to August, and October to April in the northern hemisphere.

HOW SHOULD SWISS CHARD BE STORED?

It will keep in your refrigerator.  Place in one of your more humid drawers in a plastic bag for up to 5 days.  This leafy green is one of the more difficult vegetables to transport long distances.

WHICH IS HEALTHIER – KALE OR SWISS CHARD?

So in comparing these two vegetables, they are almost identical in calories, fiber, calcium and protein with Swiss chard being very slightly ahead.   However kale takes a slight lead when it comes to vitamins A and C.  The one area with a clear winner is Swiss chard in terms of iron content.  Kale has 6% versus Swiss chard with 22% of the recommended daily allowance.  Both options however are healthy meal choices.