Escarole might be one of the most underrated leafy greens, but it’s certainly worth getting to know. With its mild bitterness, versatile flavor, and impressive nutritional profile, escarole is a fantastic addition to many dishes. Whether you’re tossing it into salads, adding it to soups, or sautéing it with garlic, escarole is a beautiful way to add variety and nutrients to your diet. We will go over the definition of escarole, its health advantages, and some delectable culinary applications in this post.
What is Escarole?
Escarole is a leafy green vegetable that is a member of the chicory family and is also referred to as broad-leafed endive. Although it resembles other greens such as frisée, radicchio, and endive, its flavor is softer and less intense than that of its bitter relatives. Escarole’s broad, slightly curly leaves have a lighter center and a darker exterior.
With a crisp, fresh texture and a slightly bitter flavor when raw, it has a unique flavor profile that mellows out beautifully when cooked. Because of this, escarole can be used in both cooked and fresh recipes.
The Health Benefits of Escarole
Escarole is not only delicious but also high in nutrients. Escarole is nutrient-dense in addition to being delicious. Here are a few key health benefits of adding this leafy green to your diet:
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Escarole is high in vitamins A, C, and K, which are essential for skin health, immune support, and bone health. It also contains folate, which is essential for cell growth and development.
- High in Fiber: Escarole is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer periods of time and supports digestive health. This makes it a great addition to a balanced diet, especially if you’re aiming for satiety without excess calories.
- Antioxidants: Like many leafy greens, escarole contains antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Low in Calories: Escarole is very low in calories, which makes it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight while still enjoying nutrient-dense food.
- Blood Sugar Management: Because escarole slows the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream, its low glycemic impact and fiber content make it helpful for people trying to control their blood sugar levels.
The Proper Selection and Storage of Escaroles
Escarole heads should have bright green, crisp leaves that are not wilting or turning yellow. The inner leaves are typically lighter and less bitter than the outer leaves, which have a stronger flavor.
Wrap the escarole loosely in a damp paper towel, then place it in a plastic bag and store it in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. Storing it this way should keep it fresh for up to a week. Before using, make sure to give it a good wash because dirt can sometimes become trapped in the leaf folds.
Yummy Ways to Utilize Escarole
Escarole’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of dishes. Here are some popular and easy ways to enjoy this leafy green:
- Escarole Salad
For a refreshing, slightly bitter salad, use the tender inner leaves of escarole. Toss with a simple vinaigrette, or pair it with flavors like citrus, apples, or pears to balance the bitterness. Add some shaved Parmesan, toasted nuts, or thinly sliced fennel for texture and flavor. A drizzle of honey can also bring out the natural sweetness in the leaves.
- Escarole and Bean Soup
One of the most classic ways to enjoy escarole is in a hearty soup. Escarole and white bean soup is a popular Italian dish that combines the mild bitterness of escarole with creamy cannellini beans and a savory broth. You can add Italian sausage, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra richness. This comforting, nutritious soup is perfect for a chilly day.
- Sautéed Escarole with Garlic
Sauté escarole with olive oil, garlic, and a dash of red pepper flakes for a straightforward but delectable side dish. Escarole becomes tender and flavorful when cooked, as the bitterness is lessened. Pasta, fish, or grilled meats go very well with this dish.
- Pizza Escarole
Escarole is a delightful and unexpected pizza topping! Spread the escarole over your pizza dough, add some mozzarella or ricotta, and bake until bubbly. Sauté the escarole with a little garlic. The mildly bitter escarole balances the creamy cheese to create a distinctive and mouthwatering pizza that is sure to wow.
- Escarole in Pasta
Add escarole to pasta dishes for an easy way to boost the nutritional value of your meal. Sautéed escarole works well with creamy sauces, or toss it with olive oil, garlic, and lemon for a light and fresh pasta. Adding cannellini beans or chickpeas turns it into a hearty, balanced meal.
- Grilled Escarole
Try grilling escarole for a more unusual twist: cut a head of escarole in half lengthwise, brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill for a few minutes until wilted and slightly charred, then drizzle with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. The grilling process brings out a smokier, more complex flavor that is great as a side dish or on its own.
Alternatives to Escarole
Although each will give the dish a slightly different flavor, you can use the following greens in its place if you can not find escarole:
- Radicchio: Has a similar bitterness and works well in both salads and cooked dishes.
- Spinach: A milder option, spinach won’t bring the same bitterness but will provide a similar texture.
- Swiss Chard: Milder in flavor but great in soups and sautés.
- Kale: Slightly heartier and more bitter than escarole but a good stand-in for cooked dishes.
Cooking Tips for Escarole
- Balance the Bitterness: Pairing escarole with sweet or acidic ingredients like citrus, apples, or vinegar can help balance its natural bitterness.
- Cook It Down: Cooking escarole softens its texture and reduces its bitterness, making it an excellent option for soups, sautés, and braises.
- Try It Raw: For salads, stick to the lighter inner leaves, which have a gentler flavor. They add a nice contrast to other greens like romaine or arugula. Click here for more info
Final Thoughts
Escarole is a delicious, nutrient-dense green that deserves a spot in your kitchen. Its unique flavor and versatility make it an excellent ingredient for everything from fresh salads to hearty soups. Whether you’re new to escarole or looking for new ways to use it, this leafy green is a fantastic way to add variety and nutrition to your meals. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up a head of escarole and discover all the delicious ways you can enjoy this underrated green.
