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Chard is a little tough and bitter for us to eat raw, so we sautéed it first until it wilted, then let it cool slightly. Most of our beets were tiny little things (with the exception of one big one) and we left them raw, grating them into slivers that provided some crunch in the dish.

We wanted some sweetness, something to soften the taste of the chard and highlight the beets, so we went with a favorite, simple balsamic vinaigrette with a bit of brown sugar. And, well, we're suckers for goat cheese paired with beets — the mild, tangy flavor and creaminess was a perfect finishing touch.

Sautéed Rainbow Chard with Raw Beets and Goat Cheese
serves 4 to 6

3 or 4 medium-sized beets (we had one big and 4 or 5 inch-wide ones)
4 large handfuls of rainbow chard
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
4 ounces of goat cheese, crumbled

For the dressing:
2 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper

Peel the beets and either grate them on a box grater or in a food processor. You should have about two cups of shredded beets.

Separate and chop the thick stems of the chard. Heat the olive oil in a large stock pot on medium heat and cook the stems for about 5 minutes, until they are softened. Add the leaves of the chard, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, turning with tongs, until the leaves have wilted and cooked down. Transfer the chard to a large bowl and allow to cool to room temperature.

Make the dressing. Whisk together the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper, then stream in the olive oil while whisking vigorously.

Combine the chard and the beets and toss with the vinaigrette (depending on how much chard you have and how saturated you want your greens, you may have some vinaigrette left over). Top with goat cheese.