Cicoria alla Griglia: A Grilled Chicory Delight

Table of Contents

Toggle

Cicoria alla Griglia

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Equipment

• Equipment Needed: Grill or grill pan, tongs, cutting board, knife, and bowl

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• 4 heads of chicory or endive
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Chicory:
• Start by washing the chicory thoroughly under cold water. Remove any damaged leaves and trim the stem end slightly to keep the leaves together.
• Preheat the Grill:
• Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it's well-oiled to prevent sticking.
• Season the Chicory:
• In a large bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the chicory. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss gently to ensure each head is evenly coated.
• Grill the Chicory:
• Place the chicory on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the leaves are slightly charred and tender. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Finish Cooking:
• Once grilled to your desired tenderness, remove them from the grill and let them stand for a few minutes.
• Serve:
• Drizzle with a little more olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
• Variations
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Herb Infusion: Toss with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
• Vegan Option: Omit Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese.

If you’re in the mood for something simple yet flavorful, let me show you how I make Cicoria alla Griglia, or grilled chicory. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch of earthy flavors, making it a versatile addition to any meal. When served as a side dish or topped with your favorite protein, it’s a delightful option for both the casual cook and the experienced chef.

What to Expect

Expect a dish that’s not only easy to make but also versatile. Cicoria alla Griglia is deliciously smoky and earthy, complementing many main courses beautifully. It’s perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or even a quick lunch.

From my own personal experience, this dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a larger Italian spread. It’s a crowd-pleaser that showcases the simplicity and beauty of Italian cuisine.

Quick Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 100 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: $5-$10 (varies by location)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Side Dish
• Equipment Needed: Grill or grill pan, tongs, cutting board, knife, and bowl
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making   #Cicoria alla Griglia   here 

Ingredients

• 4 heads of chicory (or endive)
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making   #Cicoria alla Griglia   here 

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicory:
   • Start by washing the chicory thoroughly under cold water. Remove any damaged leaves and trim the stem end slightly to keep the leaves together.
2. Preheat the Grill:
   • Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Season the Chicory:
   • In a large bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the chicory. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss gently to ensure each head is evenly coated.
4. Grill the Chicory:
   • Place the chicory on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the leaves are slightly charred and tender. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Finish Cooking:
   • Once grilled to your desired tenderness, remove them from the grill and let them stand for a few minutes.
6. Serve:
   • Drizzle with a little more olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Herb Infusion: Toss with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
• Vegan Option: Omit Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese.

Tips and Substitutions

• Chicory Substitutes: If chicory isn’t available, arugula or kale can also work well, although they will have different textures and flavors.
• Dressing Alternatives: For a different flavor, consider using balsamic vinegar or a mustard vinaigrette instead of olive oil.
• Dietary Needs: For a gluten-free version, ensure all your seasoning and cheese options are gluten-free.
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making   #Cicoria alla Griglia   here 

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 100
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g

Troubleshooting Tips

• Chicory Sticking: If the chicory sticks to the grill, make sure to oil the grill properly and preheat it well.
• Overcooked Chicory: Keep an eye on the chicory while grilling, as it can become mushy if cooked too long. A little char is great, but you want to maintain some crunch.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to whip up this fantastic Cicoria alla Griglia, get ready to impress your friends and family with this deliciously simple dish. Whether you enjoy it as a side or experiment with toppings, it’s bound to be a hit at your table. Enjoy your cooking.