Sautéed Greens with Toasted Walnuts
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This vibrant dish of sautéed greens with toasted walnuts is a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal produce. By using both Swiss chard and earthy beet greens, you create a beautiful contrast of textures and flavours, heightened by a splash of tangy white wine vinegar. The addition of toasted walnuts provides a satisfying crunch that balances the tender, buttery leaves, making this a sophisticated yet simple side dish for any occasion.
As a nutritious vegetarian option, these greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, offering a light alternative to traditional heavy sides. The recipe is incredibly versatile and works just as well alongside a Sunday roast as it does served with grilled halloumi or poached eggs for a quick lunch. It is an excellent way to ensure nothing goes to waste when buying fresh garden beets.
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Ingredients for Sautéed Greens with Toasted Walnuts
120ml coarsely chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, divided
1 bunch Swiss chard (about 350g ), stems and greens separated, stems sliced crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces, greens coarsely chopped
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoons red pepper flakes
Greens from 1 bunch beets, coarsely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups greens)
3 teaspoons white wine or Champagne vinegar
How to make Sautéed Greens with Toasted Walnuts
Back to contentsHeat a large skillet over medium and toast walnuts, shaking pan often, until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Transfer nuts to a plate.
Heat same skillet over medium and add oil and butter, stirring to combine. Once butter melts, add onion, 1/4 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add Swiss chard stems and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 2 minutes more. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, 1 minute. Add Swiss chard greens, beet greens, vinegar, remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoons pepper. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally with tongs, until tender, about 3–4 minutes. Uncover and cook 1 minute more. Serve topped with toasted walnuts.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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