Looking for a fresh and vibrant salad that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dining experience? Look no further than this exquisite Radicchio Salad with Chives and Hazelnuts! Bursting with bold flavors and delightful textures, this Italian-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a breeze to prepare. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a stunning salad that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. Dive into this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head radicchio, chopped
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the hazelnuts by toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and their skins begin to crack. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Once cooled, roughly chop the toasted hazelnuts into smaller pieces, ensuring they maintain some texture for the salad.
- Wash the radicchio thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Chop the radicchio into bite-sized pieces, discarding the tough core and separating the leaves.
- Finely chop fresh chives using a sharp knife, creating thin, delicate pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a simple vinaigrette.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped radicchio, chives, and toasted chopped hazelnuts.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately to preserve the crisp texture of the radicchio and the crunch of the hazelnuts.
Tips
- Toast the Hazelnuts Carefully: Keep a close eye on your hazelnuts while toasting them. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds! Stir frequently and remove them from the heat as soon as they become fragrant.
- Choose Fresh Radicchio: Select a head of radicchio that feels firm and has vibrant, crisp leaves. Freshness is key to achieving that satisfying crunch in your salad.
- Make Ahead: If you're preparing this salad for a gathering, you can toast the hazelnuts and chop the radicchio and chives in advance. Just combine everything and dress the salad right before serving to maintain its freshness.
- Vinaigrette Variations: Feel free to experiment with the vinaigrette! Adding a teaspoon of honey or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavor profile and add a touch of sweetness.
- Add More Crunch: If you love texture, consider adding other ingredients like sliced apples or pears, or even some crumbled cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making it a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 217kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
