Description

A vibrant, savory Swiss chard almond sauce that’s nutty, herbaceous, and creamy in a pesto-like way, perfect for tossing with pasta or using as a versatile plant-based spread.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups (230 g) raw almonds

10 ounces (300 g) Swiss chard, stems removed

1 cup (75 g) green onions, chopped

2 tablespoons (3 g) packed fresh oregano leaves

1 tablespoon (15 ml) white wine vinegar

1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup (120 ml) water

3 cups (240 g) dried pasta

1/2 cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water

Vegan parmesan, optional for garnish

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Instructions

Heat a pan over medium heat and toast the almonds for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
Place Swiss chard leaves in a large bowl and pour boiling water over them. Let sit for 2–3 minutes until softened and bright green.
Drain the chard, rinse with cool water, and drain again thoroughly.
Add toasted almonds to a food processor and pulse until they resemble coarse sand.
Tear the chard into smaller pieces and add to the processor along with green onions, oregano, white wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
Process for about 30 seconds, then slowly stream in the water while blending until a smooth, pesto-like sauce forms.
Cook pasta according to package instructions, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Combine pasta and sauce over low heat, adding reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve topped with vegan parmesan if desired.

Notes

Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor.

Lemon juice can replace vinegar for a brighter taste.

Add red pepper flakes for heat.

Sauce can be thinned with extra water if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Sauce
Method: Blending
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg