Prepare to transform your ordinary toast into a gourmet sensation that will make your taste buds dance with delight! Our Chard Florentine on Toast Points is not just a recipe, but a culinary adventure that brings the rustic elegance of Italian cuisine right to your dining table. Imagine creamy, nutmeg-infused Swiss chard melting over crispy golden toast points, creating a dish so irresistible that it'll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious lunch, this recipe is your ticket to instant kitchen stardom!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread, toasted
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the Swiss chard. Rinse the chard leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces, discarding any tough stems.
- In a large skillet, add a splash of water and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the chopped Swiss chard to the skillet and cover. Steam the chard for about 3-5 minutes, or until it is wilted and tender. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Once the chard is cool enough to handle, transfer it to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained Swiss chard, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
- Spread the chard and cheese mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the mixture in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- While the chard Florentine is baking, prepare the toast points. Take the slices of bread and cut them diagonally into quarters to form triangles. Toast them in a toaster or on a baking sheet in the oven until golden brown and crispy.
- Once the chard Florentine is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- To serve, place a generous spoonful of the chard Florentine onto each toast point. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
- Enjoy your Chard Florentine on Toast Points as a delightful appetizer or light meal, perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Tips
- Choose fresh, vibrant Swiss chard with crisp leaves for the best flavor and texture.
- When squeezing moisture from the chard, press gently to avoid losing too much flavor.
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for a more robust taste.
- Toast points should be crisp but not too hard - aim for a golden-brown color.
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat ricotta and reduce the cream.
- Fresh nutmeg will provide a more intense flavor compared to pre-ground nutmeg.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld together.
- For extra richness, you can add a sprinkle of crispy pancetta or bacon bits on top.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
- Experiment with different bread types like sourdough or whole grain for varied taste experiences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
