Escarole is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the chicory family, much like endive and radicchio. Known for its slightly bitter flavor, escarole is a versatile ingredient that can be eaten raw or cooked. Despite its incredible nutritional benefits and its ability to enhance a variety of dishes, escarole is often overlooked compared to more popular greens like spinach or kale.
In this article, we’ll cover how to clean escarole, what dishes it pairs well with, and a delicious, healthy escarole recipe for you to try!
How to Clean Escarole
Since escarole grows close to the ground, dirt and sand can often get trapped in its leaves. Here’s the best way to clean it:
- Cut off the base: Start by cutting off the root end of the escarole. This will allow you to separate the leaves easily.
- Soak the leaves: Place the separated leaves in a large bowl of cold water. Swirl the leaves around to loosen any dirt.
- Rinse thoroughly: Drain the water, and if necessary, repeat the soaking and rinsing process until no dirt remains.
- Dry the leaves: Use a salad spinner to dry the escarole leaves or pat them dry with a clean towel.
What Does Escarole Go With?
Escarole’s slightly bitter taste adds a great depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. Here are a few delicious ways to use it:
- Salads: When raw, escarole adds a crisp texture and a slightly bitter bite to salads. It pairs beautifully with ingredients like pears, blue cheese, nuts, or a tangy vinaigrette.
- Soups and Stews: Escarole is frequently used in Italian soups like escarole and white bean soup or Italian wedding soup. Its heartiness makes it perfect for cooking without wilting too much.
- Sautéed Dishes: A quick sauté with olive oil, garlic, and lemon makes for a fantastic side dish. You can also pair it with pasta or grilled chicken for a light, healthy meal.
Recipe: Sautéed Escarole with Garlic and Lemon
Ingredients:
- 1 head of escarole (cleaned and chopped)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the chopped escarole and cook until the leaves wilt, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using).
- Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately as a side or on top of pasta.
Health Benefits of Escarole
Escarole is not only versatile but also packed with nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, and also provides a good amount of fiber. The fiber helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full, making escarole a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, its high content of antioxidants helps fight inflammation and supports overall wellness.
Conclusion: Escarole is a highly underrated green vegetable that offers a unique flavor and fantastic health benefits. Whether in soups, salads, or sautéed dishes, escarole can add both nutrition and flavor to your meals. With its easy-to-clean leaves and versatile uses, it’s a must-have ingredient in any kitchen. So, next time you’re looking for a nutrient-packed green, give escarole a try!