Rutabaga Mash with Olive Oil and Garlicky Swiss Chard
This creamy rutabaga mash with olive oil and garlicky Swiss chard is a cozy December side that helps you flex your plant power and thrive beyond 60 without the heavy holiday crash.
A December comfort side that feels cozy, light, and seriously underrated
If you are looking for a warm, comforting holiday style side that does not leave you feeling heavy afterward, this is one of my favorite ways to flex your plant power in December. Rutabaga is one of my December focused foods because it is nourishing, affordable, and still a little mysterious for many people. That makes it perfect for this time of year. It feels special, but it is also simple and realistic for weeknight dinners.
This mash gives you that creamy, cozy vibe you want from classic comfort dishes, without the post meal slump. Pair it with garlicky Swiss chard and you have a beautiful plate that supports steady energy and a thrive beyond 60 lifestyle.
Why rutabaga is an underrated winter swap
Rutabaga is mildly sweet and earthy, with a texture that turns silky when mashed. It can stand in for potatoes or be blended with them if you want a softer transition.
It also brings something a little different to the December table. When everyone is doing the same few sides, rutabaga is a quiet surprise that still feels familiar once you taste it.
How to prep rutabaga without frustration
Rutabaga has a thick exterior, so the easiest path is a sturdy knife and a simple method.
Quick prep steps
- Slice off both ends to create a stable base.
- Stand it upright. Cut the skin away in downward strips.
- Quarter it, then cube.
Time saver tip
If your rutabaga is large, cut it into smaller chunks before peeling fully. It is often easier on the hands and wrists.
Rutabaga Mash with Olive Oil and Garlicky Swiss Chard
Serves
4 as a side
Or 2 to 3 as a lighter main when you add protein
Ingredients
Rutabaga mash
- 2 pounds rutabaga, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 to 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup warm vegetable broth or hot water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary
Garlicky Swiss chard
- 1 large bunch Swiss chard, stems chopped and leaves sliced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pinch salt
- Squeeze of lemon
Instructions
1. Cook the rutabaga
- Add cubed rutabaga to a pot, cover with water, and salt lightly.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer 18 to 25 minutes until very tender.
- Drain well.
2. Mash it smooth
- Return rutabaga to the warm pot.
- Add olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs if using.
- Mash with a potato masher.
- Slowly add warm broth until you reach your preferred creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Cook the Swiss chard
- Heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Sauté chard stems for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add garlic, stir 30 seconds.
- Add leaves and a pinch of salt.
- Cook 2 to 4 minutes until just wilted and glossy.
- Finish with lemon.
4. Serve
Spoon the mash onto plates and top or side it with the garlicky greens.
Healthy benefits of the ingredients
Rutabaga
- A great source of fiber for digestive support and fullness.
- Provides vitamin C, which is helpful during winter months.
- Naturally lower in calories than many classic mash bases, which can support weight management goals for older adults.
Olive oil
- Rich in monounsaturated fats and beneficial plant compounds.
- Supports heart friendly eating patterns and helps make the mash feel luxurious without heavy dairy.
Garlic
- Adds bold flavor with minimal effort.
- Traditionally associated with immune support and overall wellness.
Swiss chard
- A mineral rich leafy green with vitamins A and K plus magnesium and potassium.
- Offers a satisfying bitter green balance that pairs beautifully with the gentle sweetness of rutabaga.
Nutrition facts (estimated)
Per serving, based on 4 servings and using 3 tablespoons olive oil total between mash and greens.
- Calories: 180 to 220
- Carbohydrates: 20 to 24 g
- Fiber: 5 to 7 g
- Protein: 2 to 4 g
- Fat: 10 to 14 g
These numbers will shift based on how much oil and broth you use and whether you add protein.
Add ins for protein
This dish becomes a full meal with one easy upgrade.
Plant based options
- White beans folded into the mash
- Lemony chickpeas on top
- Crispy tofu cubes
- A scoop of lentil mushroom ragù
Flexitarian options
- A soft boiled egg
- A simple piece of fish on the side
These additions keep the meal aligned with a mostly plant based flexitarian approach while supporting muscle maintenance and recovery.
Pairing ideas for December
This mash is incredibly versatile.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots
- A mushroom gravy
- Cranberry walnut salad
- Stuffed squash
- A simple bean or lentil entrée
It also pairs well with your other holiday comfort recipes that lean into warmth, herbs, and simple whole food ingredients.
Make ahead and storage
- Store mashed rutabaga in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat with a splash of broth and a small drizzle of olive oil to bring back the creamy texture.
- Swiss chard is best fresh, but leftovers hold well for 1 to 2 days.
How this fits my December focus foods theme
I love recipes like this because they make seasonal eating feel doable. Rutabaga is one of those quiet December stars that helps you keep meals comforting and nourishing, without sliding into heavy holiday eating every day.
If you want more ways to use my December focused foods, you can link this post directly to:
That internal thread will help readers move from one cozy, healthy winter idea to the next.
A gentle December reminder
Healthy holiday eating is not about skipping comfort. It is about choosing comfort that loves you back. This rutabaga mash with olive oil and garlicky Swiss chard is one of those simple, steady wins that helps you thrive beyond 60 while still enjoying the season.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle, especially if you have existing conditions or take medication.
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