Name: Oyster Swiss Chard Gratin with Country Bacon
Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients: 3 thick slices smoky bacon, cut into small dice; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small onion, minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 bunches Swiss chard, stemmed, leaves chopped into 1/2-inch dice; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 18 oysters, freshly shucked, patted dry, and coarsely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup fresh bread crumbs

Swiss chard is a winter green that is in season just as oysters are at their peak. As the weather cools, the chard gets sweeter and the oysters get saltier, achieving a beautiful balance of earth and sea when together in the same bite. We use big, sweet Louisiana oysters, but any oyster will do.

Recipe notes

See Related Recipes and Cooking Tips

Thanksgiving in New Orleans
Chefs Allison Vines-Rushing and Slade Rushing share recipes for deep-fried turkey, an oyster gratin, and pecan praline semifreddo from their book, *Southern Comfort*.

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.

Recipe notes

Thanksgiving in New Orleans