Radicchio is a great ingredient to add flavor, texture and color to any dish. Whether you’re making pasta, salads or roasting vegetables, radicchio is a must-have in your kitchen. Here’s a beginner’s guide to shopping for radicchio.
When choosing radicchio, look for heads that are heavy and firm with vibrant red and white leaves. Avoid radicchio that has brown spots, wilting leaves or a slimy texture. Radicchio may be sold as individual heads, so expose the leaves and make sure they’re intact.
Even though radicchio keeps well in the refrigerator, buy only what you need as it doesn’t keep long. Make sure to store it in an open container to keep air circulating and place it away from strong smells such as garlic and onions to prevent flavor change.
Radicchio can be eaten raw or cooked. For raw eating, quickly rinse the leaves in cold water and pat the leaves dry with a paper towel. If you’re cooking the radicchio, cut it into wedges and drizzle with oil and seasonings before roasting in the oven or adding to your favorite dishes.
