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Rainbow Chard and Radicchio Sauté

This vibrant rainbow chard and radicchio sauté is a sophisticated vegetarian side dish that perfectly balances bitter and sweet notes. The earthy flavour of the chard and the slight bitterness of the radicchio are beautifully offset by a splash of tangy red wine vinegar and the subtle sweetness of currants. Toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch, making this a textured and colourful addition to any dinner table.

Quick to prepare and naturally nutritious, this healthy vegetable dish works exceptionally well alongside roasted meats or as a warm salad base. While it is a versatile accompaniment, its deeper flavours pair surprisingly well with a light red wine. Serve it warm to fully appreciate the contrasting textures of the tender leaves and softened ribs.

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Ingredients for Rainbow Chard and Radicchio Sauté

  • 900g rainbow chard (3 to 4 medium bunches)

  • 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, cut into 3/4-inch pieces

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 450g radicchio (about 2 large heads), cored, cut into 1-inch wedges, leaves separated (about 1925ml )

  • 2 tablespoons (or more) red wine vinegar

  • 3 tablespoons currants (optional)

  • 40g pine nuts, toasted

Cut ribs from chard; chop crosswise into 1-inch pieces (about 4 cups). Slice leaves crosswise into 1-inch strips (about 3850ml ).

Melt butter with oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is tender, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Add chard ribs; cover and cook until tender, about 6 minutes. Working in batches, add chard leaves and radicchio, stirring until wilted. Cook uncovered until vegetables are tender, stirring often, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons vinegar and currants, if desired. Season with salt and pepper and more vinegar, if desired.

Using slotted spoon, transfer chard mixture to bowl. Sprinkle pine nuts over.

The general rule is red with meat and white with fish, but Pinot Noir is a light red wine and salmon is a rich fish, so it works. We like the earthy, fruity GAINEY VINEYARD 2007 PINOT NOIR Ccalifornia, $48).

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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