Dandelion Delight!

This underrated rated green is a favorite of herbalists though a nuisance to gardeners!  Dandelion is a nutrient powerhouse with calcium, magnesium, loads of vitamins and iron.  Plus, it provides super support for the liver by helping the body eliminate toxins!  Try it in a smoothie and if you like quiche, you’ll love this crustless delicious greens pie! 

1 1/2 pounds swiss chard

1/2 pound arugula

3/4 pound dandelion greens

3 T unsalted butter (or olive oil)

1 T olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 small yellow pepper, seeded, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)

2 small zucchini (about 1/2 pound), grated

1/3 cup chopped, fresh basil

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup grated Jarlsberg cheese

1/4 cup fresh bread crumbs

1. Trim the chard, arugula and dandelion greens.  Discard stems and chop leaves.

2. Preheat oven to 375.  Heat 1 T of the butter with the oil in a medium saucepan, add the onion, cook 1 minute.  Add the garlic; cook 1 minute longer.  Stir in the pepper, chard, arugula, dandelions, zucchini, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper.  Cook, covered, over medium heat until very tender, about 15 minutes.  Remove the cover and cook, stirring frequently, until all liquid has evaporated, about 25 minutes.  Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

3. Beat the eggs into the greens and pour the mixture into a buttered 9-inch glass or ceramic quiche pan.  Sprinkle with the Parmesan and Jarlsberg cheeses. 

4. Melt the remaining 2 T butter in a small skillet over medium heat.  Stir in the bread crumbs and saute until golden.  Spoon them over the pie.  Bake 25 minutes.  Let stand at least 10 minutes before serving.  Serves 6.

Recipe adapted from Healing Wise by Susun Weed

Experiment with other vegetables on hand and add any other greens you’d like!  You can reduce the cheese and use less olive oil and eliminate the butter if you are looking for a healthier version.  You can also try egg substitutes as well!  enjoy!