Swiss Chard Anyone??

I have no clue where this wonderful green got a bad name, but I love this stuff and HATE paying for it at the grocery store since our lovely pastor's wife has it growing in abundance!! This is a fabulous recipe for those of you who may not know about trying this green leafy veggie. I add some red pepper flakes for some added kick. Try this! It's amazing!!

Ingredients

2 bunches Swiss chard leaves, chopped (about 8 cups packed)

1 cup water

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, more for the baking dish

1 cup low fat milk

2 tablespoons unbleached white flour

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup grated Comté or Parmesan cheese, divided

1 tablespoon whole wheat bread crumbs

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chard leaves in a saucepan with the water and cook over medium heat until leaves are just tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid. Set chard aside.

In the same saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. When butter has melted, whisk in the flour until blended. Whisk constantly for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and reserved cooking liquid. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and stir in half of the grated cheese. Stir in the cooked chard and transfer to a buttered 9x9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.

Bake for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbling. Serve immediately.