PENNE WITH SWISS CHARD AND GARLIC

Penne with Swiss Chard and Garlic image

Yield Serves 2

Number Of Ingredients 8

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1 pound Swiss chard, stems cut from the leaves and the stems and leaves chopped separately
1/8 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes, or to taste
3 large garlic cloves sliced thin
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup water
1 cup drained canned tomatoes, chopped
1/2 pound penne or other tubular pasta
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan plus additional as an accompaniment

Steps:

Rinse and drain separately the Swiss chard stems and leaves. In a large heavy skillet cook the red pepper flakes and the garlic in the oil over moderate heat, stirring, until the garlic is pale golden, add the stems and 1/4 cup of the water, and cook the mixture, covered, for 5 minutes, or until the stems are just tender. Add the leaves with the remaining 1/4 cup water and salt and pepper to taste and cook the mixture, covered, for 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and cook the mixture, covered, for 3 minutes, or until the leaves are tender.
While the chard is cooking, in a kettle of salted boiling water boil the penne until it is al dente and drain it in a colander. In a large bowl toss the penne with the chard mixture and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan and serve it with the additional Parmesan.