Swiss Chard Salad Wraps with Apple Slaw is a delicious and healthy dish that stands out for several reasons. First, Swiss chard is packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, making it a great addition to any diet. The crunchy apple slaw brings a refreshing and slightly sweet flavor, while the dressing adds depth with its tangy and sweet notes. Plus, this recipe has great versatility; it can easily be made vegan by substituting dairy ingredients.
These wraps are perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even a party snack. They are colorful, visually appealing, and provide a satisfying crunch in every bite. By making these wraps, you not only treat your taste buds but also fuel your body with wholesome ingredients.
HOW TO MAKE Swiss Chard Salad Wraps with Apple Slaw
Ingredients
- 8 – 10 Swiss chard leaves, stems removed
- 3 cups cabbage slaw mix (or make your own with thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrots)
- 1 large apple, cored and chopped
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
- 2 green onions, stem and white portion chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or lemon slices (to keep the slaw fresh if you are not using it right away)
Optional:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup cooked gluten-free grain of your choice (quinoa, rice, etc.)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for dairy-free or vegan version, use non-dairy yogurt or mayo)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons apple juice or white grape juice
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (for vegan option)
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS
- Remove the stems from the Swiss chard leaves. Place the leaves in boiling water for one minute. This helps to soften them. After that, transfer the leaves to an ice bath to stop the cooking. If you prefer, you can also microwave the leaves. Place them between sheets of damp paper towels and microwave for two minutes (two one-minute intervals). The center rib may be a bit firmer but should still be easy to roll. Carefully transfer the leaves to dry paper towels and pat them dry. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, apple juice, Dijon mustard, onion powder, honey or agave syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If your dressing is thick, add a little more apple juice to thin it out. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cabbage slaw, chopped apple, sunflower seeds, green onions, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. This fresh mix will be the filling for your wraps.
- Add the dressing to the slaw mixture. Toss everything well to combine so that the flavors blend nicely.
- To assemble the wraps, take one Swiss chard leaf and place about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the slaw mix near the top edge of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf inward, then roll the leaf from the top down until it is tightly closed. Repeat this step for each of the Swiss chard leaves you have.
- Once all your wraps are done, you can store them in a sealed container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to two days.
HOW TO SERVE Swiss Chard Salad Wraps with Apple Slaw
Serving these wraps is easy. You can enjoy them as is or pair them with a light dipping sauce for extra flavor. They make a great centerpiece on a platter for gathering friends or family. Garnish with extra sunflower seeds or chopped parsley for a pop of color. You can also serve them alongside a simple soup for a comforting meal.
HOW TO STORE Swiss Chard Salad Wraps with Apple Slaw
To keep your Swiss Chard Salad Wraps fresh, store them in a sealed container in the fridge. They should stay good for up to two days. If you plan to make them ahead of time, it’s best to keep the slaw and the wraps separate until you’re ready to eat. This will prevent the leaves from becoming too soggy.
TIPS TO MAKE Swiss Chard Salad Wraps with Apple Slaw
- Choose the Right Chard: Look for large, vibrant Swiss chard leaves. They should be firm and not wilted. Bigger leaves make rolling easier.
- Make Your Own Slaw: If you prefer, create your own cabbage slaw using different types of cabbage or adding other veggies like bell peppers.
- Experiment with Dressings: Feel free to customize the dressing by adding herbs or spices you love, such as garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Add Proteins: If you’d like your salad wraps to be heartier, consider adding cooked beans, lentils, or grilled chicken if not strictly vegan.
VARIATIONS
Explore different flavors by changing the ingredients. You can use kale instead of Swiss chard for a different taste. Swap out the apple for a pear or add dried cranberries for sweetness. Try using different nuts or seeds in the slaw. You can also make the dish in a bowl by removing the rolling step. Just layer the ingredients in a bowl for an easy and quick meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the wraps in advance. Just be sure to store them in a sealed container in the fridge. They will keep fresh for about two days, but it’s best to keep the slaw and chard leaves separate until you’re ready to eat.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the Swiss Chard Salad Wraps with Apple Slaw can easily be made gluten-free. Just ensure that any grains you use, such as quinoa or rice, are labeled gluten-free, and avoid any ingredients that contain gluten.
3. Can I make this dish without the yogurt?
Yes! If you want a vegan option or a dairy-free version, you can use non-dairy yogurt or mayo in the dressing. This will still give you a creamy texture without using dairy.
By following the instructions and tips provided above, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying these refreshing Swiss Chard Salad Wraps with Apple Slaw. They offer a perfect balance of crunch, taste, and nutritional value, making them an excellent choice for any mealtime. Enjoy your culinary adventure!