As you embark on a culinary journey, envision the vibrant colors and bold flavors of Grilled Radicchio with Balsamic Glaze and Goat Cheese. Within this dish lies a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, each element meticulously crafted to create a symphony for the senses.
Begin by preparing the radicchio, slicing the heads into halves or quarters, maintaining the core for structure. Brushed with extra virgin olive oil and seasoned with salt and ground black pepper, each piece is primed for grilling, where it undergoes a transformation, gaining a smoky char and tender texture.
What is radicchio?
Radicchio is a type of leafy vegetable that belongs to the chicory family, known for its slightly bitter taste and vibrant red-purple color. It has crisp leaves that are often used raw in salads or cooked by grilling, roasting, or sautéing. When cooked, radicchio mellows in flavor, developing a slightly sweet and nutty taste, making it a versatile ingredient in various culinary preparations.
In parallel, a balsamic glaze is crafted, simmering balsamic vinegar and honey until it’s reduced to a glossy, sweet-tangy sauce, ready to adorn the grilled radicchio. As the glaze thickens, its aroma hints at the rich flavors it will impart.
The grilled radicchio, now infused with smoky notes and caramelized to perfection, is arranged on a platter. Drizzled generously with the balsamic glaze, each piece receives a finishing touch – a crumble of creamy goat cheese that melts slightly, adding a luxurious creaminess to every bite.
A final sprinkle of fresh basil adds brightness and freshness to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal and flavor profile.
With each forkful, savor the contrast of smoky, charred radicchio against the sweet-tangy glaze and creamy goat cheese – a symphony of flavors that dance across the palate, elevating the humble radicchio to a gourmet delight.
Enjoy Grilled Radicchio with Balsamic Glaze and Goat Cheese as a sophisticated appetizer or side dish, perfectly paired with grilled meats or seafood, or as a standalone indulgence that celebrates the beauty of seasonal produce and simple, yet elegant flavors.
Grilled Radicchio with Balsamic Glaze and Goat Cheese
4
servings5
minutes15
minutes20
minutesGrilled Radicchio with Balsamic Glaze and Goat Cheese combines the smoky char of grilled radicchio with the sweetness of balsamic glaze and the creamy tanginess of goat cheese for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
2 heads of radicchio, halved or quartered
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
to taste, salt and ground black pepper
for garnish, chopped basil
Directions
- Prepare the Radicchio:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°). Cut the radicchio heads in half or in quarters lengthwise, keeping the core intact to hold the leaves together. Brush the cut sides of the radicchio halves with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and ground black pepper. - Grill the Radicchio:
Place the radicchio halves on the preheated grill, cut side down. Grill for about 2-3 minutes, until charred grill marks appear and the radicchio begins to soften. Carefully flip the radicchio halves with tongs and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side. - Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens and reduces by about half. Remove from heat. - Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the grilled radicchio halves to a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the grilled radicchio. Crumble the goat cheese over the top of the radicchio. If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped basil for garnish. - Serve:
Serve the Grilled Radicchio with Balsamic Glaze and Goat Cheese immediately while still warm. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or side dish alongside your favorite grilled meats or seafood.