Baked radicchio is a delicious alternative to traditional side dishes, offering a burst of flavor with its tender texture and slightly bitter taste. Once roasted, the radicchio transforms into a savory, comforting dish that’s perfect for pairing with various main courses. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this dish in no time, and it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike. Here’s how you can make this quick, easy, and tasty side dish.
Ingredients:
- Radicchio: 800 g
- Extra virgin olive oil: 4-5 tablespoons
- Grated Parmesan: 30 g
- Sea salt: to taste
- Ground black pepper: to taste
How to Prepare Baked Radicchio:
Step 1: Cutting the Radicchio
Start by cutting the radicchio head into several pieces. If you find the radicchio’s bitterness too strong, you can soak the pieces in a bowl of water mixed with vinegar or lemon juice for about 30 minutes. This will help to reduce its bitter aftertaste while maintaining the natural nutrients and flavors.
Step 2: Washing and Draining
Once the radicchio is cut, rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. After washing, let it drain well to prevent excess water from affecting the cooking process.
Step 3: Drying the Radicchio
After washing, pat the radicchio dry using a clean towel or paper towel. It’s essential to ensure the radicchio is dry before roasting, as excess water could make it soggy and affect the final texture.
Step 4: Placing on the Baking Sheet
Place the radicchio pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the radicchio from sticking to the tray while cooking, and it will also help with cleanup afterward. Be sure to arrange the pieces without overlapping to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Drizzling with Olive Oil
Drizzle the radicchio with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil. The olive oil will not only add richness and flavor but also help to create a tender texture as it roasts. You can adjust the amount of oil based on your preference, but typically 4-5 tablespoons are enough for 800 g of radicchio.
Step 6: Sprinkling with Parmesan
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the radicchio. As the radicchio roasts, the Parmesan will melt and add a savory, cheesy layer of flavor that balances out the radicchio’s natural bitterness. If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to use a more pungent cheese like Grana Padano or Pecorino.
Step 7: Seasoning with Salt and Pepper
Season the radicchio with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt will enhance the natural flavors of the vegetable, while the pepper will add a subtle kick. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, but keep in mind that the Parmesan will add some saltiness as well.
Step 8: Roasting in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the baking tray in the oven and roast the radicchio for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook. You want the radicchio to become tender and slightly caramelized, but not completely golden brown. If you prefer a more crispy texture, you can extend the cooking time by a few minutes or increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F) for the last few minutes.
Step 9: Removing from the Oven and Final Touch
Once the radicchio is ready, remove it from the oven. It should be tender inside with slightly crispy edges. This combination of textures – tender on the inside, crispy on the outside – is what makes baked radicchio so delicious.
Step 10: Adding Extra Olive Oil and Serving
After removing the radicchio from the oven, you can drizzle it with a little more extra virgin olive oil for added richness. This last touch will enhance the flavor and add a beautiful sheen to the roasted vegetable. Serve the radicchio immediately as a side dish to your main course.
Additional Tips for Customizing Your Baked Radicchio:
Although this basic baked radicchio recipe is already tasty, there are several ways you can enhance and personalize the dish:
- Adding Flaked Almonds or Walnuts
If you enjoy adding crunch to your dishes, consider adding flaked almonds or chopped walnuts before roasting. These ingredients will not only provide texture but also bring a subtle sweetness that complements the radicchio’s bitterness. - Breadcrumbs for a Gratin Effect
For a gratin-style dish, sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the radicchio before placing it in the oven. The breadcrumbs will create a golden, crispy topping that adds both flavor and texture to the dish. - Adding Cheeses for a Stretchy Effect
For a richer, cheesier version, try adding some meltable cheeses like provola, scamorza, or Asiago. These cheeses will melt beautifully and create a wonderfully stretchy effect that pairs perfectly with the radicchio. - Herbs and Spices for Extra Flavor
You can add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to elevate the flavor of the radicchio. Additionally, spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper can be sprinkled on for extra warmth and depth.
Storing Baked Radicchio
Baked radicchio keeps well and is perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place it back in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes, or you can microwave it for a quicker option. However, for the best texture and to maintain its crispiness, reheating in the oven is recommended.
Conclusion
Baked radicchio is a simple, quick, and incredibly flavorful side dish that transforms a humble vegetable into a dish bursting with savory goodness. With basic ingredients like olive oil, Parmesan, salt, and pepper, you can create a dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses. Feel free to personalize it by adding nuts, cheeses, or herbs to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a vegetarian option, baked radicchio is a great choice for any meal. Try it today, and enjoy the deliciously tender, slightly crispy flavors of this wonderful dish!
