Radicchio (pronounced ra-dee-kyoh) is a leaf chicory, also known as Italian chicory. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a leafy vegetable with white-veined red leaves, sometimes easily mistaken for a red cabbage. Radicchio has a bitter and spicy flavour, however is not as strong when grilled or roasted.

Radicchio is highly nutritious, being a rich source of vitamins and minerals and dietary fibre. Antioxidants, plant phytonutrients, selenium, potassium, calcium, B-vitamins, vitamin A, C, E, K and folate are also present in this white-veined purple leaf vegetable. Being low in calories, free of fats and cholesterol, radicchio can assist in weight loss. With its high concentration of potassium, radicchio can also lower blood pressure.

The leaves on radicchios are a great source of phenolic flavonoid antioxidants. These flavonoids helps protect eyes from age-related macular disease (ARMD) by filtering harmful ultra-violet rays.

You can incorporate radicchio in your diet by adding it to your favourite salad! Because of it’s spicy flavour, it is best paired up with some sweet counterparts such as corn, orange segments and feta to add some creaminess. If you would rather a warm dish, radicchio can be grilled in olive oil or coconut oil. If you’re an Italian lover, try adding radicchio to your favourite risotto.

Have you tried this amazing leaf chicory before? If so, share with us your favourite recipe and dishes! We’d love to hear from you!

References:

• “8 Health Benefits Of Radicchio”. Health Benefits of Eating…. N.p., 2014. Web. 10 May 2016.
• “Radicchio”. Wikipedia. N.p., 2016. Web. 10 May 2016.
• “Radicchio Nutrition Facts And Health Benefits”. Nutrition And You.com. N.p., 2016. Web. 10 May 2016.