Name: Turkish Swiss Chard with Tomato and Rice (Zeytinyağlı Pazı)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more to serve); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 red chili pepper, deseeded and finely chopped; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon double concentrated tomato paste; 1 cup canned diced tomatoes; 1 pound Swiss chard, cleaned and roughly chopped; 1/2 cup rice, rinsed; 2 cups hot water; Sea salt; Freshly ground black pepper; Plain yogurt (optional, to serve)

Why You’ll Love Turkish Swiss Chard with Tomato and Rice Recipe

This recipe is simple, wholesome, and full of Mediterranean flavor. The Swiss chard becomes tender as it braises with tomato, garlic, and olive oil, while the rice makes the dish satisfying without feeling heavy.

It is also a great vegetarian meal or side dish. You can serve it on its own, with yogurt, or alongside grilled vegetables, fish, chicken, or crusty bread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Extra virgin olive oil
Onion
Red chili pepper
Garlic
Double concentrated tomato paste
Canned diced tomatoes
Swiss chard
Rice
Hot water
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Plain yogurt, optional for serving

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large, wide saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until it begins to soften.

Add the chopped red chili pepper, garlic, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes. Stir well and cook for about 2 minutes to deepen the tomato flavor.

Stir in the chopped Swiss chard and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until it starts to wilt. Add the rinsed rice and mix everything together.

Pour in the hot water, then season with salt and black pepper. Stir well, cover, and cook over medium-low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the vegetables are soft.

Turn off the heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Serve with the cooking juices, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and plain yogurt if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Total time: 45 minutes
Cook time: about 30 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes

Variations

For a spicier version, add extra red chili pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

For a heartier dish, add cooked chickpeas or white beans during the final 10 minutes of cooking.

For extra brightness, finish the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

You can also replace Swiss chard with spinach, kale, or beet greens, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water if needed. You can also warm it in the microwave in short intervals.

This dish is also delicious served at room temperature, especially with yogurt and olive oil.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. This dish keeps well and often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to settle.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes. Zeytinyağlı dishes are commonly served warm, room temperature, or chilled.

Do I have to use yogurt?

No. Yogurt is optional, but it adds a creamy, tangy contrast.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may need extra water.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes. Use chopped ripe tomatoes and cook them until they soften.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as long as you skip the yogurt or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use spinach instead of Swiss chard?

Yes. Spinach works well, but it cooks faster than Swiss chard.

Why rinse the rice?

Rinsing removes excess starch and helps the rice cook more evenly.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is possible, but the texture of the greens and rice may become softer after thawing.

What should I serve with it?

Serve it with yogurt, crusty bread, grilled vegetables, fish, chicken, or a simple salad.

Conclusion

Turkish Swiss Chard with Tomato and Rice is a nourishing, flavorful dish that turns simple ingredients into something deeply comforting. With tender greens, tomato-rich broth, olive oil, and soft rice, it is an easy recipe to enjoy as a light main dish or a satisfying side.