Ruby Red Chard
Vegetables
Nutri-ScoreA

Ruby Red Chard

Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Ruby Red Chard provides 19 kcal, 1.8g of protein, 3.7g of carbohydrates, and 1.6g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Ruby Red Chard is a vibrant leafy green vegetable known for its striking red stems and rich nutrient profile. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.

Also known as:
Swiss ChardSilverbeet
Scientific NameBeta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
Region of OriginMediterranean region

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories19 kcal
Water
91.4%
Fiber1.6g
Total5.7g
Protein
1.8g(32%)
Fats
0.2g(4%)
Carbohydrates
3.7g(65%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C30 mg (33%)
Vitamin K830 mcg (692%)
Vitamin A6116 IU (122%)
Folate14 mcg (4%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium379 mg (11%)
Magnesium81 mg (19%)
Calcium51 mg (5%)
Iron1.8 mg (10%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, Ruby Red Chard helps combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
High in Vitamin K, it supports bone health and plays a crucial role in blood clotting.
Contains significant amounts of magnesium, which is essential for muscle function and energy production.
Low in calories and high in fiber, it aids in digestion and can help with weight management.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High oxalate content may pose a risk for individuals prone to kidney stones.
!Excessive consumption may interfere with calcium absorption due to oxalates.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed sautéed, steamed, or added to salads. Washing thoroughly before consumption is recommended to remove any dirt or pesticides.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose Ruby Red Chard with vibrant, crisp leaves and firm stems. Avoid any that are wilted or have brown spots.

How to Store

Wrap in a damp paper towel and place in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Consume within a week for optimal freshness.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating chard can lead to kidney stones.
RealityWhile chard contains oxalates, moderate consumption is safe for most people.
MythAll leafy greens are the same nutritionally.
RealityDifferent leafy greens have unique nutrient profiles; Ruby Red Chard is particularly high in vitamins K and A.
MythCooking destroys all the nutrients in vegetables.
RealityWhile some nutrients may be lost, cooking can enhance the bioavailability of others, such as beta-carotene.

Healthy Recipes

Ruby Red Chard and Quinoa Salad

A vibrant salad featuring ruby red chard, protein-packed quinoa, and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect for a nutritious lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups chopped ruby red chard
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped ruby red chard, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and top with feta cheese before serving.

Sautéed Ruby Red Chard with Garlic and Lemon

A quick and flavorful side dish of sautéed ruby red chard infused with garlic and a splash of lemon juice.

Ingredients
  • 1 bunch ruby red chard, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add chopped ruby red chard and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. 3. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice before serving.

Ruby Red Chard and Chickpea Stew

A hearty stew combining ruby red chard and chickpeas, simmered in a rich tomato broth, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups chopped ruby red chard
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chickpeas, cumin, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Stir in chopped ruby red chard and simmer for 10 minutes before serving.

Ruby Red Chard Smoothie

A refreshing smoothie packed with nutrients, blending ruby red chard with banana, almond milk, and a hint of ginger.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup chopped ruby red chard
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine chopped ruby red chard, banana, almond milk, ginger, and honey.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Ruby Red Chard and Mushroom Risotto

A creamy risotto featuring ruby red chard and earthy mushrooms, making for a satisfying and nutritious dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup chopped ruby red chard
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat vegetable broth and keep warm.
  2. 2. In a separate pot, sauté onion and mushrooms in olive oil until soft, then add Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes.
  3. 3. Gradually add warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring until absorbed; then stir in ruby red chard and Parmesan cheese before serving.

Ruby Red Chard Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of ruby red chard, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 2 cups chopped ruby red chard
  • 1 can black beans, drained
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked brown rice, chopped ruby red chard, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Ruby Red Chard Pesto Pasta

A unique twist on traditional pesto, using ruby red chard blended with nuts and olive oil, served over whole grain pasta.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups chopped ruby red chard
  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz whole grain pasta
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook whole grain pasta according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a food processor, blend chopped ruby red chard, walnuts, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan until smooth.
  3. 3. Toss the pasta with the chard pesto and serve warm.

Ruby Red Chard Omelette

A protein-packed omelette filled with sautéed ruby red chard and cheese, perfect for a healthy breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup chopped ruby red chard
  • 1/4 cup cheese (cheddar or feta)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped ruby red chard until wilted.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk eggs with salt and pepper, then pour into the skillet over the chard.
  3. 3. Cook until eggs are set, sprinkle cheese on top, fold, and serve.

Ruby Red Chard and Lentil Salad

A nutritious salad combining ruby red chard, lentils, and a tangy vinaigrette, ideal for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 2 cups chopped ruby red chard
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, chopped ruby red chard, and diced red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, toss well, and serve.

Ruby Red Chard and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty hash of roasted sweet potatoes and ruby red chard, perfect for a filling breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 sweet potatoes, diced
  • 2 cups chopped ruby red chard
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25 minutes.
  3. 3. In a skillet, sauté onion until soft, add ruby red chard, and cook until wilted; combine with roasted sweet potatoes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the health benefits of Ruby Red Chard?

Ruby Red Chard is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like magnesium and potassium, which contribute to overall health.

How can I incorporate Ruby Red Chard into my diet?

You can add it to salads, smoothies, or sauté it with garlic and olive oil for a nutritious side dish.

Is Ruby Red Chard safe for everyone to eat?

While generally safe, those with kidney stone issues should moderate their intake due to oxalates.

How should I store Ruby Red Chard?

Store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to a week.

Can I eat Ruby Red Chard raw?

Yes, it can be eaten raw in salads, but cooking can enhance its flavor and reduce oxalate content.

What nutrients are found in Ruby Red Chard?

It contains vitamins A, C, K, magnesium, potassium, and iron, making it highly nutritious.

How do I select the best Ruby Red Chard at the market?

Look for vibrant, crisp leaves and firm, unblemished stems.

Can Ruby Red Chard help with weight loss?

Yes, its low calorie and high fiber content can aid in weight management by promoting satiety.