Baked Radicchio

Baked radicchio is a simple and tasty dish, typical of Italian cuisine, especially that of Veneto, where radicchio is highly appreciated. Here is the recipe for preparing baked radicchio.

Ingredients

• 4 heads of red Treviso or Chioggia radicchio
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Balsamic vinegar (optional)
• grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C.
2. Clean the radicchio by removing the damaged outer leaves and the final part of the core. Cut it in half lengthwise or into four parts if the heads are particularly large.
3. Arrange the radicchio halves on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Lightly crush the garlic cloves with the side of a knife and distribute them in the tray.
5. Drizzle the radicchio with extra virgin olive oil, then season it with salt and pepper to taste. If you wish, you can add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a sweet and sour contrast.
6. Bake and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the radicchio becomes tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.
7. Optionally, in the last 5 minutes of cooking, you can sprinkle the radicchio with grated Parmesan cheese, which will form a nice golden crust and add flavor.

Curiosity

Radicchio, in addition to being delicious, is also very healthy. It’s low in calories and rich in antioxidants. It is also traditionally used in Italy not only in baked dishes but also raw in salads and even in risottos and pastas. According to Venetian tradition, caramelized radicchio with balsamic vinegar is a classic combination that enhances the natural sweetness and the slight bitterness of this vegetable.