Salads are a refreshing and nutritious addition to any meal. They can be a great way to incorporate greens and vegetables into your diet. One type of green that is often overlooked in salads is escarole. This leafy green is part of the chicory family and is packed with vitamins and minerals. It has a slightly bitter taste and a crunchy texture, making it a perfect addition to any salad. Here are some tips for making delicious and healthy salads with escarole.
1. Choose fresh and crisp escarole
The first step to making a great escarole salad is to choose fresh and crisp escarole. Look for heads of escarole that are firm and have bright green leaves. Avoid any heads that are wilted or have brown spots. It is also important to wash the escarole thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Mix it with other greens
Escarole can be quite bitter on its own, so it is best to mix it with other greens to balance out the flavor. Some great options include romaine lettuce, baby spinach, and arugula. These greens will add different textures and flavors to your salad and make it more interesting.
3. Add a variety of toppings
Toppings are what make a salad interesting and delicious. When it comes to escarole salad, you can get creative and add a variety of toppings to make it even more flavorful. Some great options include nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, and cheese, such as feta or Parmesan. You can also add protein-rich toppings like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make your salad more filling
4. Mix in some fruits
Fruits are a great addition to salads, and they can add a touch of sweetness to balance out the bitterness of escarole. Some fruits that go well with escarole include apples, pears, oranges, and strawberries. These fruits provide a burst of flavor and add some crunch to your salad.
5. Make a homemade dressing
Store-bought dressings are often packed with unhealthy additives and preservatives. Instead, try making your own dressing at home. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard is a great option that pairs well with escarole. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create a dressing that suits your taste
6. Massage the escarole
If you find the bitterness of escarole too strong, try massaging it before adding it to the salad. This will help to soften the leaves and reduce the bitterness. Simply tear the escarole into bite-sized pieces, add a pinch of salt, and massage the leaves for a few minutes until they start to wilt.
7. Use escarole in warm salads
Escarole is not just limited to cold salads. It can also be used in warm salads, which are perfect for colder months. You can lightly sauté the escarole in olive oil and garlic and then add it to a salad with cooked grains, roasted vegetables, and a homemade dressing. The warmth of the escarole will bring out its natural sweetness and make for a comforting and hearty salad.
In conclusion, escarole is a versatile and nutritious green that can take your salads to the next level. With these tips, you can create delicious and healthy salads that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. So next time you are at the grocery store, don’t forget to pick up some escarole and give these tips a try. Your taste buds and body will thank you
