Thursday, June 7, 2012

Try new things

I was introduced to this salad by the farmer (and a friend), Ollie, who runs our CSA. I honestly have never had radicchio until she gave me a huge beautiful head of it a few weeks ago. The leaves are deep magenta, similar to cabbage, with thick white veins. Radicchio is a chicory which is part of the daisy family. Its leaves have a bitter flavor, which is mellowed by grilling or roasting. 

But the salad I'm suggesting is raw, making it perfect for summer barbecues. You don't need to turn on the oven or fire up the grill. It's easy, almost too easy.
Simply drizzle—rinsed, dried, chopped leaves—with raw honey, balsamic, and olive oil. Don't be stingy with the honey, it helps cut the bitterness. Add a dash of sea salt and pepper, and a handful of pistachios to garnish. Enjoy! 

7 comments:

Carrie | acookgrowsinbrooklyn said...

I have a love affair with all bitter greens, in part because they offer a versatility that salad greens don't. I especially have a very soft spot for radicchio with it's cool name and purple hue and strong flavor. This salad will definitely be on my summertime hit list!

Lesley said...

sometimes i get in a rut and forget to try new things. sometimes the simplest ideas are the best, aren't they?

Unknown said...
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taye said...

What great ideas! (both the "try new things" post & radicchio with raw honey... sounds amazing- a must try! :)

la domestique said...

I love radicchio and will definitely give this technique a try!

Jana said...

what a great idea-thanks!!!

Mike said...

When you said bbq. I thought of taking it out right now and making some steak.