Prepare to transform your salad game with a dish that's not just a side, but a show-stopping culinary experience! This Italian-inspired Radicchio and Greens with Hot Dressing is a tantalizing blend of crisp, bitter greens and a sizzling, aromatic dressing that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality salad that's both sophisticated and incredibly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head radicchio, torn into pieces
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the radicchio and mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water. Spin or pat dry with clean kitchen towels to remove excess moisture.
- Tear the radicchio into bite-sized pieces and place in a large salad bowl. Add the mixed greens and gently toss to combine.
- In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Add balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard to the hot oil. Whisk vigorously to create an emulsified dressing. Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes to slightly reduce and blend flavors.
- Immediately pour the hot dressing over the prepared greens, tossing quickly to ensure even coating. The heat will slightly wilt the greens and radicchio.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss once more to distribute seasonings.
- Serve immediately while the dressing is still warm, presenting the salad in individual plates or a large serving dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Greens: Select the freshest radicchio and mixed greens possible. Look for crisp, vibrant leaves without wilting or brown spots.
- Dressing Technique: The key to this recipe is the hot dressing. Be careful not to burn the garlic - it should be fragrant but not browned.
- Timing is Crucial: Pour the hot dressing immediately over the greens and toss quickly to prevent over-wilting while ensuring even coating.
- Garlic Variations: For a milder flavor, you can briefly roast the garlic before adding to the oil, or use roasted garlic paste.
- Temperature Matters: Serve immediately while the dressing is still warm to experience the full depth of flavors and slight wilting of the greens.
- Optional Additions: Consider adding toasted pine nuts or shaved Parmesan for extra texture and flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
