Chicory Recipe Vegetarian Ideas for Delicious Meals

Chicory is a wonderfully versatile and nutritious vegetable that often flies under the radar in vegetarian cooking. With its slightly bitter, earthy flavor and crisp texture, chicory adds a unique depth to salads, sautés, and even hearty main dishes.

If you’re looking to experiment with new greens and elevate your vegetarian meals, this chicory recipe is a perfect place to start. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a kitchen novice, this dish is simple to prepare and packed with flavor and nutrients.

In this recipe, we’ll explore how to transform fresh chicory into a delicious vegetarian meal that highlights its natural bitterness balanced with sweet and tangy notes. Plus, we’ll share tips on picking the best chicory, variations you can try, and how chicory stacks up nutritionally.

Get ready to fall in love with this underrated green!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicory recipe is a celebration of flavor and health. Chicory’s distinctive bitter undertone is mellowed by caramelized onions and a touch of balsamic vinegar, creating a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and comforting.

It’s a great way to introduce more greens into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish for entertaining, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and equipment, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it’s completely vegetarian and can be easily adapted for vegan diets by swapping the cheese.

Beyond taste, chicory is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting digestion and overall wellness. Dive into this recipe to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal that’s as good for your palate as it is for your body.

Ingredients

• 2 heads of fresh chicory, washed and chopped
• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or vegan cheese alternative
• Fresh lemon juice, from half a lemon

Equipment

• Large sauté pan or skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Serving platter or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicory: Rinse the chicory heads thoroughly to remove any grit. Slice them lengthwise into thin strips and set aside.
2. Caramelize the onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and soft, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Sauté the chicory: Push the onions and garlic to the side of the pan and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced chicory and toss everything together. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicory softens but still retains a slight bite.
5. Deglaze and season: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey (if using). Stir well to coat the chicory and onions evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the vinegar to reduce slightly.
6. Finish with lemon and nuts: Remove from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and sprinkle with toasted walnuts or pecans. Toss lightly to combine.
7. Plate and garnish: Transfer the sautéed chicory to a serving platter. Top with crumbled feta or your vegan cheese alternative. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

For best flavor, choose fresh, firm heads of chicory with vibrant green leaves. Avoid any that look wilted or yellowed.

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the honey or substitute with maple syrup, and use a plant-based cheese alternative instead of feta.

If you prefer a milder taste, blanch the chicory in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before sautéing to reduce bitterness.

You can also add other veggies like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and color. For a heartier meal, serve over cooked quinoa or your favorite grain.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This sautéed chicory pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a hearty grain like brown rice or quinoa for a filling vegetarian meal.

It also complements roasted vegetables or can be used as a flavorful topping for bruschetta.

For a complete meal, consider pairing it with our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or add a side of protein-rich lentils or beans.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, try our delightful Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a creamy treat that balances the savory meal.

Conclusion

Chicory is an excellent vegetable to incorporate into your vegetarian cooking repertoire. Its unique flavor and nutritional benefits make it a standout ingredient that can elevate simple dishes into something special.

This recipe showcases how easy it is to transform chicory into a delicious, healthy meal that will please both your taste buds and your body.

With a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up this sautéed chicory dish in under 30 minutes. It’s flexible enough to suit various dietary preferences and can be customized with your favorite nuts, cheeses, or additional veggies.

We hope this recipe inspires you to experiment more with chicory and enjoy the wonderful flavors it brings to the table.

For more inspiration on vegetarian and flavorful recipes, check out our collection including the Pesto Recipe Marcella Hazan or the savory Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe. Happy cooking!

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