Chard Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a bundle of chard in the produce aisle, wondering what to do with it, look no further. Chard Soup is a flavorful, nutritious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s a go-to for those looking for a light yet hearty meal, packed with green goodness, savory flavors, and a delightful balance of textures.

Chard, a leafy green with a slightly earthy taste, holds up beautifully in soups. It retains its structure when cooked, making it a great addition to broths and stews. And the best part? This soup is incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and can be tailored to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re a vegetarian or someone looking to pack in extra greens, this recipe has you covered.

Let’s break down the recipe and all the details to help you master the art of Chard Soup!

A simple yet satisfying dish, this Chard Soup is full of flavor and easy to make. It’s like a warm, cozy bowl of comfort on a chilly evening, blending the richness of vegetables with the freshness of chard, all swimming in a savory broth. Let’s jump right into the recipe!

Ingredients Needed

You don’t need to spend hours shopping for fancy ingredients to make this soup. It’s all about what’s fresh, simple, and seasonal. Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect Chard Soup:

Chard (about 1 bunch) – This is the star of the show. Opt for fresh, vibrant chard. Both the stalks and leaves are edible, so we’re using the whole bunch!
Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – For sautéing the veggies. A good quality extra virgin olive oil will add depth to the soup’s flavor.
Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced) – Garlic adds an aromatic base, infusing the soup with a rich, savory essence.
Onion (1 medium, chopped) – A classic addition, providing a mild sweetness that balances the chard’s earthiness.
Celery (2 stalks, chopped) – Adds freshness and a subtle crunch to the soup.
Carrots (2 medium, chopped) – Carrots bring a gentle sweetness and a burst of color to your dish.
Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and diced) – Potatoes help thicken the soup, making it creamy without the need for heavy cream.
Vegetable broth (4 cups) – This will form the base of your soup. You can use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option if you prefer.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) – A hint of acidity from lemon juice brightens up the whole soup and complements the chard beautifully.
Salt and pepper (to taste) – For seasoning, you can adjust these based on your preference.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little heat if you like your soup with a kick!
Parmesan cheese (optional) – To sprinkle on top for an added layer of savory goodness.

Cooking Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe comes together quickly and easily, and you’ll love how the flavors develop as you go along.

Prep The Veggies
- Wash and chop all your vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the celery, carrots, and potatoes into small pieces. Remove the stems from the chard and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté The Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onions are translucent and everything smells wonderfully fragrant.
Cook The Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes, letting them soften slightly in the sautéed vegetables.
Add The Broth
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add The Chard
- Now it’s time for the chard. Stir in the chopped chard leaves and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until they’re wilted and tender.
Season And Finish
- Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Add the lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Let everything simmer together for a final 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle with a little Parmesan cheese. Enjoy it with a warm slice of crusty bread or some homemade croutons on the side!

Ingredient Insights

Chard: Chard is packed with nutrients-rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as magnesium and potassium. It’s great for promoting healthy skin, bones, and heart health. The leaves offer a slightly bitter flavor, while the stems provide a crunchy texture, adding depth to soups and stews.
Potatoes: Potatoes give the soup a velvety texture as they break down in the broth. They also provide a comforting starchiness that makes this soup feel hearty and filling without needing any heavy dairy.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice may seem small, but it works wonders by brightening up the dish and cutting through the richness of the broth. This balance of acidity and richness is key to making the soup feel light yet satisfying.
Vegetable Broth: Opt for a good-quality vegetable broth that is full of flavor. It forms the foundation of the soup and enhances the taste of the veggies. You could also use chicken broth for added depth if you’re not strictly vegetarian.

Expert Tips

Keep It Green: Don’t throw away the chard stems! They have great flavor and texture. Chop them up and sauté them along with the onions and garlic for a more robust base.
Blend for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup once everything is cooked. Use an immersion blender for a smooth, velvety texture that still has some chunky bits of vegetables.
Make It Spicy: For a little extra heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce instead of red pepper flakes.
Add More Greens: If you want to boost the nutrition even further, add some spinach, kale, or even arugula in place of some or all of the chard.
Meal Prep: This soup stores beautifully! Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

Protein-Packed Version: Add some cooked beans (like cannellini or chickpeas) or lentils to the soup to make it more filling and boost the protein content.
Meat Lover’s Twist: If you’re a fan of meat, try adding crumbled sausage or diced bacon during the sautéing process for a smoky, savory flavor.
Vegan Version: For a vegan twist, use vegetable broth, skip the Parmesan, and you can even make it extra creamy by adding a dollop of coconut milk or cashew cream at the end.
Spicy Chard Soup: If you enjoy spice, you can increase the red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of cayenne pepper. You could also toss in a couple of diced green chilies.

Final Words

Chard Soup isn’t just a comforting dish; it’s an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and a few tweaks, you can make this soup your own. Whether you stick to the basics or add a few extra flavors, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.

Chard Soup Recipe