Today's tip

Chard is a leafy green with large, wide leaves on long stalks.

Swiss chard is a vegetable that is much appreciated in Italy. Even though it is readily available in most supermarkets, it is not much used in the States. Their flavor is like cardi or cardoons—a very Italian vegetable with a flavor that is a cross between artichokes and celery. I love cooking with it and using it in soups, as well as pastas, risottos, and fish dishes. And whenever you are thinking spinach, think of substituting Swiss chard. It usually comes in a bunch tied around the stalks. Look for young tender, bright green leaves green in and thin stalks.