Sauteed Swiss Chard and Bacon

The Roommate Diaries, Volume 1: My exquisite roommate decided to go on quite a strict diet. "I ONLY EAT VEGETABLES NOW!" she screamed quietly. So, I bought some fresh veggies at the grocer and what did she do? Stuck up her haughty little nose. Hah. Little did she know what was in store for her palate. Swiss chard. One of nature's delicacies unknown or mistaken to the untrained eye. You either hate it or love it. Bacon. Another one of nature's delicacies. WITH THEIR POWERS COMBINED, a masterpiece was born.

1 bunch Swiss chard
1 TBSP olive oil
2 strips bacon (cut into 1/8 pieces)
1/2 onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar

Slice the chard stems into 1-inch pieces. Stack the remaining leaves in a pile, roll together, and slice into 1/2-inch ribbons. Heat oil in a frying pan. Add bacon and saute until browned, keeping the fat. Add onion and garlic and cook until transluscent. Add the stems, cook for 3-4 minutes, then add vinegar and pepper flakes. Add the leaves in batches. They are way too fluffy to put in all at the same time. Once the leaves wilt down, add the next batch. Stir occasionally until tender, about 5 minutes. Enjoy the party in your mouth as two seemingly opposite food items collide.

This recipe courtesy of Patrick and Gina Neely