Forktionary

Radicchio

Cichorium intybus Vegetable

Radicchio Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A vibrant, bitter leafy chicory with deep red leaves and white veins, often used in salads, or grilled/roasted to temper its characteristic bitterness.

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.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Radicchio are:

Bitter peppery slightly sweet (especially when cooked) crisp

Chef’s Secret

To temper radicchio's bitterness for salads, soak torn leaves in ice water for 15-20 minutes, then drain thoroughly. For cooking, halve or quarter and grill/roast with olive oil to bring out its hidden sweetness.

Best Substitutes

Belgian Endive

less bitter, similar crispness
Ratio 1:1

Arugula

peppery, but not bitter
Ratio 1:1

Frisée

delicate, curly texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

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

Culinary Pairings

Salads risottos grilled roasted pasta dishes balsamic vinegar blue cheese walnuts oranges

Recipes Using Radicchio

Acini Di Pepe Salad image 130
Preparation Italian Vegetarian Salads

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 Pear Salad image 125
Greens Vegetables 15 Minutes Or Less Pears

Asian Pear Salad

Inspired by renowned chef Nathan Lyon, this vibrant Asian Pear Salad is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. Crisp Asian pears, peppery radicchio, and tender baby greens are tossed in a creamy Dijon vinaigrette, punctuated by creamy blue cheese and crunchy pecans. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or elegant side dish. Get ready to impress!

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An American Quilt Chopped Salad image 102
Low Calorie Course Low Saturated Fat Low Protein

An American Quilt Chopped Salad

A vibrant and refreshing chopped salad inspired by Richard Simmons' "Farewell to Fat" cookbook! This recipe features a zesty homemade dressing and a colorful mix of crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion!

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Asian Cabbage Salad With Fresh Pea Pods image
Preparation Time To Make Spring Vegan

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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Asian Style Slaw image
Technique Occasion Salads To Go

Asian Style Slaw

This vibrant Asian-inspired slaw is a flavor explosion! Ready in under 15 minutes, it's the perfect side dish for any Asian-inspired meal or a light lunch. Sweet, tangy, and crunchy, this recipe is simple to make but packed with deliciousness. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Asparagus With Toasted Sesame Aioli image
Healthy Low In Something Course Number Of Servings

Asparagus With Toasted Sesame Aioli

Wow your guests with this elegant and flavorful spring appetizer! Crisp-tender asparagus spears are perfectly complemented by a rich and nutty toasted sesame aioli. The vibrant presentation, with asparagus arranged in a tall glass and the aioli served in a colorful radicchio leaf cup, makes this dish as stunning as it is delicious. Make-ahead friendly – prepare the asparagus and aioli up to a day and a week in advance, respectively!

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