Recipe of the Day: Pasta with Swiss Chard

  • Pasta with Swiss Chard

    Description:
    "If you haven't tried chard, here is your chance. The leaves can be
    prepared similar to spinach; the stalks similar to asparagus. It is
    at its best during the summer."

    NOTES : You will have to count points for the Parmesan cheese.

    Serving Size : 4

    Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
    -------- ------------ --------------------------------
    8 ounces whole wheat bow-tie pasta -- uncooked
    12 ounces swiss chard or spinach
    4 cloves garlic
    1 tablespoon olive oil
    3/4 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
    1/4 cup skim milk
    2 teaspoons dried basil -- crushed
    1/4 teaspoon salt
    1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    2 medium tomatoes -- seeded and chopped
    1/4 cup Parmesan cheese -- finely shredded

    Cook pasta according to package directions, except omit any oil or salt. Drain. Return pasta to saucepan; cover and keep warm.

    Meanwhile, cut out and discard center ribs from Swiss chard or remove stems from spinach. Coarsely chop greens; set aside. In a large nonstick skillet cook garlic in hot oil over med heat for 15 seconds. Add greens. Cook over medium-low heat about 3 min or till greens are wilted, stirring frequently. Stir in ricotta cheese, milk, basil, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Cook and stir for 3-5 min more or till heated through.

    Add the ricotta mixture and tomato to cooked pasta; toss gently to combine. Sprinkle each serving with Parmesan cheese.