Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and prepare a large bowl of ice water. While the water comes to a boil, cut out the stems/center ribs from the Swiss chard. Cut the stems into about 2-inch lengths and chop or tear the leaves into 2-inch pieces. Add enough salt to the water so it tastes salty. Add the leaves to the boiling water for 30 seconds, drain, and transfer the leaves to the ice water. Drain again. Transfer the leaves from the colander to a clean kitchen towel, squeezing out as much water as you can in the process. Roll up and squeeze in the kitchen towel to remove any remaining water.

Step 2

Peel and thinly slice the shallots.

Step 3

In a large saucepan over medium heat melt the butter. Add shallots, chopped chard stems, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring often, until the stems are tender, about 5 minutes. Pour in the cream, bring to a boil, reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook, stirring often, until the mixtures thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the leaves and cook, stirring, until they’re warmed through and coated with the sauce. Add pepper to taste, as well as any additional salt you may like.

Step 4

Serve warm. Know that this dish keeps well loosely covered in a warm (220°F or so) oven for an hour or so if needed.