Escarole

Escarole is a type of chicory with a pungent and bitter flavor.

Storage and Handling:

Store Escarole in a loosely closed, dry plastic bag plastic bag for up to a week.  It’s best to use it within 3 to 5 days.

Separate the leaves and wash Escarole like you would for head lettuce or salad mix. 

Culinary Uses:

Escarole is bitter green; the bitter flavor mellows with cooking.  It can be sautéed with garlic and olive oil and topped with Parmesan, Romano, or Asiago cheese for a simple side dish.  It makes a delicious white bean soup (try Paul’s’ Moms’ recipe below!).

For those folks that enjoy a bitter zing in their salads, take the young tender leaves near the center of the head and mix in with your salad.  Add some olives, roasted red peppers, hard-boiled eggs, shaved Parmesan cheese or Romano cheese, maybe some raisins or craisins, vinaigrette made with a nice aged balsamic vinegar and enjoy!