Bread Crumb Pasta - elliemay.com

1/2 bunch of swiss chard or other leafy greens
8 ounces spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/3 cup italian parsley, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup unseasoned breadcrumbs (preferably homemade)
salt
grated parmesan cheese

Wash the greens and pat dry with paper towels or spin dry (this is very important because, if the greens are too wet, they will cause the breadcrumbs to become soggy). Separate the stems from the greens and chop coarsely. Cut the leaves crosswise into 1/4 inch thick slices. Set aside until ready to be used.

Bring 3 to 4 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the directions on the package or until it is al dente.

While the pasta is cooking, heat the oil over medium-high heat in a wide pan. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper and cook for 30 seconds longer. Add the parsley, breadcrumbs, and chard stems. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning the breadcrumbs. If they seem a little too dry or on the verge of burning, add a bit more olive oil to the pan. Add the chard leaves and cook until they become slightly wilted.

When the pasta is cooked, drain it well and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking together. Combine the pasta and breadcrumb mixture and toss to mix. Season to taste with salt and serve topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Makes 4 servings

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