Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your approach to vegetarian cooking! These Lentil and Rice Stuffed Swiss Chard Rolls are not just a meal – they're a vibrant, nutritious masterpiece that combines the earthy richness of lentils, the comforting texture of rice, and the elegant wrap of Swiss chard into one extraordinary dish. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner table with its stunning presentation and incredible flavor profile.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 8 large Swiss chard leaves
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Swiss chard leaves by carefully washing them and trimming the thick stem ends. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften them, then immediately transfer to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant green color.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the stuffing mixture.
- Lay out each Swiss chard leaf flat and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Place a generous spoonful of the lentil and rice mixture near the stem end of each leaf.
- Carefully roll the leaf, folding in the sides as you go, creating a neat, compact roll. Ensure the filling is fully enclosed.
- Arrange the rolled Swiss chard leaves seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the rolls, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the rolls are heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.
Tips
- Leaf Preparation is Key: When blanching Swiss chard, use a slotted spoon to transfer leaves to the ice bath to prevent tearing. Pat the leaves completely dry before filling to ensure a tight, neat roll.
- Stuffing Technique: Don't overfill the leaves. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per leaf to prevent splitting during rolling and baking.
- Flavor Boosters: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the filling for an extra layer of freshness. A sprinkle of feta cheese can also add a delightful tangy note.
- Make-Ahead Magic: These rolls can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking. They're perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
- Sauce Matters: If the tomato sauce seems too thick, thin it with a little vegetable broth to ensure the rolls stay moist during baking.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
