The best way to prepare and cook Silverbeet, a.k.a Swiss Chard

What is Silverbeet?

Silverbeet is a green leafy vegetable that comes from the same family as beetroot. There are different types of Silverbeet, and the leaf stems are in a variety of colours: white, red or even yellow.  

Like other green leafy vegetables, Silverbeet is highly nutritious and low in calories. It is a good addition to a healthy diet. Silverbeet contains lots of different nutrients such as:

• Iron - important for growth
• Vitamin C - maintaining healthy skin
• Vitamin A - helping vision in dim light

How to eat Silverbeet?

Silverbeet can be cooked and served as other green leafy vegetables. Sauteed Silverbeet makes a good side dish for a tasty roast chicken served with crispy roast potatoes. It can be added to pasta bakes to add more nutrients or even as a healthy topping for a goat’s cheese pizza.

Pureed Silverbeet can be used as a base for sauces and is easy to eat. The large Silverbeet leaves can be blanched and used to make stuffed rolls or wraps. 

Can you eat Silverbeet raw? The answer is yes! Although it is usually served cooked, it makes a great addition to salads. Chop finely and toss with your favourite dressing.

Cooking Silverbeet

Silverbeet does not take long to cook. It is only a few minutes from pan to plate. So you will be eating in no time.

There are a few ways to cook Silverbeet.

• Microwave
• Stir fry
• Steam
• Sautee

Best way to cook Silverbeet?

The microwave is the best way to cook Silverbeet as it suits quick cooking methods. 

However, preparation is key. Ensure that you take time to wash the leaves first and shake off the excess water. Then cut off the stems as they are a bit tougher and take longer to cook. 

How to cook Silverbeet in the microwave

Chop up the Silverbeet and add it to a microwavable pot with a lid. No need to add any extra water. Cover the pot and microwave on high heat for 1-minute bursts for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how crunchy you like your Silverbeet. If you like it softer, cook it for longer but be sure to check on it, or it will overcook.

Once it is cooked to your liking, go ahead and add some flavours. What goes well with Silverbeet? Simple seasoning with salt and pepper if you like, or add a squeeze of lemon, olive oil and some toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch. 

The best thing about Silverbeet?

Silverbeet is a green leafy vegetable that is quick and easy to prepare. It can be eaten in its raw state or cooked in a variety of ways, such as stir-frying, sauteing and steaming. The microwave is best for cooking Silverbeet as it suits quick cooking methods. 

So now that we have given you all the information you need about Silverbeet, what's stopping you? Don’t delay; get some Silverbeet on your plate today!

Here are a few more easy recipes you could try with Silverbeet:

• Silverbeet and potato gratin
• Silverbeet, leek and fetta slice
• Silverbeet and prawns with fried dough
• Silverbeet, onion and gruyere tart
• Silverbeet and mushroom vegetarian lasagne