Greens Marmalade

This medley of chopped healthful greens and assertive seasonings is delicious on its own, or can be embellished with a slice or sprinkle of cheese. Based on a selection from the cookbook Mostly Mediterranean by Paula Wolfert, it is a perfect year-round recipe – choose greens that are fresh and in season.

Ingredients
1 pound fresh spinach, escarole, Swiss chard, dandelion, kale, etc. (a combination works best, if using just spinach, you may need another ½ pound)
1 garlic clove, peeled and lightly crushed
2 Tbsp. olive oil
4 flat anchovy fillets, drained and crushed with a fork (optional)
1½ tsp. capers, preferably salted, rinsed and drained
¼ cup chopped pitted purple olives
1½Tbsp. seedless black or yellow raisins, soaked in warm water, drained and chopped
&frac18 tsp. hot red pepper flakes, or more to taste
kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
grilled or toasted ciabatta, baguette or other rustic, crusty bread

Steps

1. Remove the tough stems and leaves from the greens, then wash them thoroughly. Cook the greens for several minutes, until tender, in boiling salted water. Refresh in cold water. Drain the greens and thoroughly squeeze dry. Chop roughly.
2. In a skillet large enough to accommodate the chopped greens, heat the garlic in the olive oil over a medium flame. When the oil is hot, and the garlic is lightly browned, remove and discard the garlic. Add the anchovies, if using, and stir for several seconds until they begin to dissolve in the oil. Add the greens and fry for a minute, stirring. Add the capers and cook for another half a minute. Stir in the olives, raisins, and pepper flakes, and remove the mixture from the heat. Using a wooden spoon or heat-proof rubber spatula, scrape the mixture out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Allow to cool, and then chop fine by hand. Alternatively, chop in a food processor. Adjust seasoning if needed with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This preparation can be made several hours in advance or the night prior. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Allow to come to room temperature before proceeding.
3. Top the toast with the greens and serve. If desired, sprinkle the greens with cheese or top with a slice of cheese (such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano) and run the toasts under the broiler to glaze. Serve warm or at room temperature.

from Chef Kathryn Yeomans of The Farmer’s Feast