One Pan Spaghetti with Chard: Quick and Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal to add to your busy weeknight rotation, look no further than this One Pan Spaghetti and Chard recipe. This dish is a game-changer, allowing you to create a satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup all in one pan. The magic happens as the thin spaghetti cooks directly with Swiss chard, absorbing all the savory goodness and creating a silky sauce that will have your taste buds singing.

What I love most about this One Pan Spaghetti and Chard recipe is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of pantry staples and under 15 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that’s not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients. The earthy flavor of Swiss chard, the aromatic depth of garlic, and the umami finish of Parmesan cheese all come together harmoniously in this effortless yet impressive meal. So, whether you’re trying to sneak more greens onto your family’s plates or simply craving a delicious homemade dinner in a hurry, this recipe has got you covered.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and fuss-free with minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pan
• Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand
• Combines nutritious greens with satisfying pasta in under 15 minutes
• Great for busy weeknights when you need something healthy but lack time

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Spaghetti with Chard: Quick and Delicious Recipe Recipe

• Quick and fuss-free with minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pan
• Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand
• Combines nutritious greens with satisfying pasta in under 15 minutes
• Great for busy weeknights when you need something healthy but lack time
• Budget-friendly at less than $2 per serving
• Contains a full serving of vegetables in each portion
• Versatile recipe with endless adaptations based on available ingredients
• Impressive nutritional value with vitamins, minerals, heart-healthy fats, and protein
• Can be prepared ahead and leftovers can be easily refreshed
• Transforms simple ingredients into a special, delicious meal that’s quick, easy, and healthy

Ingredients for One Pan Spaghetti with Chard: Quick and Delicious Recipe

• 1 bunch Swiss chard
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 ounces thin spaghetti, broken in half
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese

Pro Tips for One Pan Spaghetti with Chard: Quick and Delicious Recipe

For a successful one-pan spaghetti and chard dish, ensure you choose a high-quality olive oil to provide a rich base for the flavors to develop. The garlic is a crucial aromatic element, so be mindful not to burn it while sautéing. Consider cutting the chard stems into small pieces and incorporating them with the garlic for added texture and to minimize food waste. Don’t forget to save a small amount of pasta cooking water before adding the final oil and cheese, as it can help adjust the consistency if needed.

To elevate this dish further, experiment with different variations based on your preferences. Swap out Swiss chard for spinach, kale, or beet greens, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. You can also personalize the meal by adding proteins like chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas during the final minutes of cooking, or enhancing the flavor profile with herbs like basil, parsley, or chili flakes. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a poached or fried egg on top just before serving for an extra touch of richness and flavor.

How to Make One Pan Spaghetti with Chard: Quick and Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Trim thick stems from Swiss chard, wash well with wet leaves, and slice into 2-inch pieces.

Step 2: Step 02

In a large pan, heat olive oil and minced garlic over medium-high heat until sizzling.

Step 3: Step 03

Add sliced chard to the pan and cook while stirring for one minute to wilt.

Step 4: Step 04

Combine water, broken spaghetti, and salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and cook for 9 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Step 05

Take the pan off the heat, then mix in the extra olive oil and Parmesan cheese.

Storage Tips

Once the one-pan spaghetti and chard dish is cooked and ready to store, you can keep any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, note that the pasta may absorb more liquid as it sits, so when reheating, consider reviving the dish by adding a splash of water and a drizzle of fresh olive oil to help refresh the flavors and texture. It’s recommended to store the finished dish in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from affecting the flavors.

For meal prep or advance preparation, you can wash and slice the chard up to two days before cooking. Store the chard in a sealed container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, ensuring it stays fresh until you’re ready to use it. This make-ahead tip can help streamline the cooking process when you’re short on time, allowing you to quickly assemble and cook the dish when you’re ready to enjoy it. By preparing components in advance and storing them properly, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with minimal effort on busy days.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Swiss chard on hand, feel free to use spinach, kale, or beet greens as a substitute. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the greens you choose.

While the recipe calls for thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta, you can use other small pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne if that’s what you have available. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can skip the Parmesan cheese and opt for nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative to sprinkle on top before serving. This simple swap makes the dish plant-based friendly without compromising on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this one-pan spaghetti and chard dish, consider serving it in individual pasta bowls garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an extra drizzle of high-quality olive oil. The vibrant colors of the Swiss chard paired with the thin spaghetti make for a visually appealing dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to devour.

For a more indulgent twist, top each serving of this flavorful pasta with a generous shaving of Parmesan cheese and a crack of black pepper. The addition of a poached or fried egg on top, with its creamy yolk cascading into the dish, adds a luxurious touch and creates a velvety sauce that elevates the entire dining experience. These simple yet elegant serving suggestions will take your one-pan spaghetti and chard to the next level for a memorable and satisfying meal.

FAQs for One Pan Spaghetti with Chard: Quick and Delicious Recipe

Can I substitute Swiss chard with other greens?

Yes, you can substitute Swiss chard with spinach, kale, or even beet greens. Adjust the cooking time as needed for tender greens.

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta works best as it cooks quickly, but you can adapt with other small or broken pasta types.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, omit the Parmesan cheese and replace it with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based version.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from clumping together in the pan?

Stir the spaghetti a few times while cooking to keep it from clumping together in the pan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, One Pan Spaghetti and Chard is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s a testament to how a handful of humble ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious and satisfying but also quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a nutritious meal to feed your family or a home cook seeking a fuss-free dinner option, this recipe has got you covered. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, so feel free to get creative and make it your own.

So, the next time you find yourself pressed for time but craving something wholesome and delicious, remember One Pan Spaghetti and Chard. Let the aroma of garlic and olive oil fill your kitchen, watch the chard wilt and the pasta cook to perfection, and savor each bite knowing that a satisfying meal is just minutes away. Embrace the simplicity, enjoy the flavors, and relish in the joy of cooking a meal that’s as nourishing for the body as it is for the soul.

One Pan Spaghetti with Chard: Quick and Delicious Recipe

One-pan Spaghetti with Chard: Transform simple ingredients into a flavorful meal in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights and minimal cleanup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time15 Minutes

Total Time25 Minutes

CuisineItalian

Skill LevelEasy

Servings2 Servings

Ingredients

• 1 bunch Swiss chard
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 ounces thin spaghetti, broken in half
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 01: Trim thick stems from Swiss chard, wash well with wet leaves, and slice into 2-inch pieces.
2. Step 02: In a large pan, heat olive oil and minced garlic over medium-high heat until sizzling.
3. Step 03: Add sliced chard to the pan and cook while stirring for one minute to wilt.
4. Step 04: Combine water, broken spaghetti, and salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and cook for 9 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Step 05: Take the pan off the heat, then mix in the extra olive oil and Parmesan cheese.