Vegetable, Leafy Green | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Carb

Radicchio

Cichorium intybus var. foliosum Allergen-Free
Radicchio

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Asteraceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean, Italian
  • Seasonality Late Fall, Winter
  • Source Radicchio plant

The Forktionary Angle

"The striking ruby jewel of the salad bowl, whose bitterness mellows into surprising sweetness with heat."

Definition

A leafy chicory vegetable known for its vibrant red-purple leaves and distinct bitter, peppery flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteBitter, Slightly peppery
TextureCrisp, Crunchy
AromaEarthy, Slightly pungent
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Bitterness Reduction

Grilling or roasting significantly mellows its bitterness, enhancing sweetness.

Botanical Family

Belongs to the chicory family, related to endive and escarole.

Nutritional Profile

Good source of Vitamin K and antioxidants.

Nutrition Facts

Per 85g (1 cup shredded)
Calories23 kcal
Total Fat0.3g
Saturated Fat0.04g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein1.4g
Total Carbohydrate4.5g
Dietary Fiber1.6g
Total Sugars0.6g
Calcium28mg
Iron0.6mg
Potassium297mg

Chef’s Secret

Grilling or roasting radicchio mellows its bitterness, making it sweeter and more tender. A quick blanch can also reduce bitterness for raw preparations.

Substitutions

Best Match

Belgian Endive

1:1

Good for salads, offers similar bitterness and crispness.

Arugula

1:1

Provides peppery bite, less bitter, suitable for salads.

Escarole

1:1

A milder chicory, suitable for cooking or less bitter raw applications.

Dandelion Greens

1:1

More intensely bitter, good for cooked dishes where bitterness is desired.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, crisp heads with vibrant red-purple leaves and white veins. Avoid wilting or brown spots.

Flavor Pairings

Olive oil balsamic vinegar goat cheese blue cheese walnuts apples citrus grilled meats.

Recipes Using Radicchio

Acini Di Pepe Salad image 196
Salads Course Cuisine Dinner Party

Acini Di Pepe Salad

This vibrant Acini Di Pepe salad is a light and flavorful delight, perfect for a summer lunch or a refreshing side dish. The tiny pasta pearls are tossed with juicy tomatoes, crunchy pine nuts, peppery radicchio, and fresh basil, all dressed in a simple yet elegant vinaigrette. Topped with creamy feta, this salad is sure to become a new favorite! (Courtesy of Cookworks)

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Asian Cabbage Salad With Fresh Pea Pods image 144
Dietary Main Ingredient Occasion Asian

Asian Cabbage Salad With Fresh Pea Pods

This vibrant Asian Cabbage Salad with Fresh Pea Pods is a quick and easy recipe perfect for a light lunch or side dish. Made with the freshest vegetables (ideally from your local Sav-on/Albertsons!), this recipe bursts with flavor and texture. The crunchy cabbage and refreshing pea pods are complemented by a zesty Asian-inspired dressing. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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