Description
A refreshing and vibrant Radicchio Salad featuring crisp radicchio and peppery arugula, balanced with sweet cherry tomatoes, tangy balsamic dressing, and optional crunchy nuts and Parmesan. This easy, nutrient-packed salad is perfect as a light meal or side dish, with adaptable variations for different tastes and diets.
Ingredients
Scale
Greens and Vegetables
- 1 head radicchio, rinsed, dried, and chopped or torn into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pine nuts
- 1/4 cup Parmesan shavings
- Optional fresh herbs: basil, parsley, or mint (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Radicchio: Rinse radicchio leaves thoroughly under cold water and dry well using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner. Chop or tear leaves into bite-sized pieces, preserving their crunchy texture.
- Assemble the Greens and Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the chopped radicchio with arugula, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion to add freshness and color contrast.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning to achieve a balanced sweet-tangy flavor that complements the radicchio’s bitterness.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Finish by adding toasted nuts or Parmesan shavings for additional texture and richness. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately for optimal crunch.
Notes
- Choose fresh radicchio heads with firm, brightly colored leaves free of browning or wilting for best flavor and texture.
- Thinly slice red onion and radicchio to allow flavors to meld and improve salad texture.
- Use a touch of sweetness in the dressing to balance radicchio’s natural bitterness.
- Toast nuts or seeds before adding to deepen their flavor and enhance the salad.
- Serve the salad immediately after tossing to maintain crispness, as radicchio wilts quickly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: Radicchio salad, crisp salad, healthy salad, Italian salad, gluten-free salad, easy salad, vibrant salad