Sautéed Chard (or Spinach)

What a delicious way to eat your greens! Chard is rich in vitamins K, A, C, magnesium, manganese, potassium, iron, fiber and more! The garlic, lemon and red pepper flakes are all optional, so flavor this dish however you like. Throw in some fresh ginger if you like Asian flavors. I like it spicy with lemon, while my kids prefer it with just salt and pepper - no garlic. The stems are edible too.

8 cups fresh chard or baby spinach
2 TB extra virgin olive oil
1-2 cloves garlic minced
squeeze of lemon juice
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

Chop the chard into bite size pieces. Warm the oil in a large saute pan over medium high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the garlic and pepper flakes, if using. Add the stems, and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add the greens and stir to coat. Saute until the leaves are just wilted. Add the lemon juice, salt and pepper and enjoy!

Tip - Thrown leftovers into some broth with some leftover meat and make soup!