Sautéed Chicory Recipe
Category: Side Dishes
Serves: 4
Sautéed chicory, or cicoria in padella, is a traditional Italian side dish that is simple yet bursting with flavor. The combination of tender chicory, aromatic garlic, and the gentle heat of fresh chili creates a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or looking to serve a healthy vegetable side dish at a gathering, this sautéed chicory recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicory (Cicoria) | 1 kg |
| Garlic cloves (Aglio) | 2 |
| Fresh chili pepper (Peperoncino fresco) | 1 |
| Extra virgin olive oil (Olio extravergine d’oliva) | 4 tbsp |
| Salt (Sale fino) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Instructions
-
Boil the Chicory
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. While the water heats up, clean the chicory by trimming off the base of the stalk and any damaged or wilted leaves. Rinse the chicory thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. -
Cook the Chicory
Once the water is boiling, add the chicory to the pot. Allow the chicory to cook for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes tender but still retains some texture. After cooking, reserve a small cup of the cooking water for later use and drain the chicory well. Place a colander over a bowl to catch any excess water as you drain it. -
Prepare the Flavored Oil
While the chicory drains, cut the fresh chili in half, removing the seeds for less heat if desired. Next, pour the extra virgin olive oil into a large skillet. Add the garlic cloves, leaving them in their skins but lightly smashing them with the side of a knife. Add the halved chili peppers to the pan and sauté over medium heat, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. -
Sauté the Chicory
Once the garlic and chili are aromatic, add a small amount of the reserved chicory cooking water to the skillet to create a flavorful base. Add the cooked chicory to the pan, season with salt, and stir gently. Let everything cook together for 8-10 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicory is evenly coated in the oil and spices. -
Finish the Dish
After the chicory has cooked through and absorbed the flavors, turn off the heat. Remove the garlic cloves from the skillet and discard them. Add the remaining fresh chili pepper, finely chopped, for an extra kick of heat. Give everything a final stir, ensuring the chili is evenly distributed. -
Serve
Your sautéed chicory is now ready to be served! Enjoy it hot as a vibrant side dish alongside your favorite main courses. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or even a hearty stew. The slightly bitter flavor of the chicory combined with the warmth of the garlic and chili will surely elevate any meal.
This sautéed chicory recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate more greens into your diet while offering a deliciously bold flavor profile. Simple, nutritious, and full of character, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
