If it is true (and I believe it is) that we eat with our eyes, this salad is a feast. I contend that green items always make a plate look gorgeous, and green with a complementary color like orange or red or purple make a plate shine. But particularly this time of the year, I love the look of a green and red touch to our holiday meals.
If you are looking for a quick and easy side salad to grace a special meal, this salad is your ticket. It not only looks great, but it is a breeze to make and unique enough to make your family or guests take note. The combination of the radicchio and arugula is super flavorful and a far cry from iceberg or romaine lettuce.
One of my boys loves salad, the other does not, yet both boys love this salad. Try it with your family, it might just surprise you how everyone gobbles it up!
Radicchio and Arugula Salad
1 medium head radicchio
5-6 ounces arugula
2 ounces Parmesan cheese
½ cup french fried onions
favorite balsamic dressing
Clean the radicchio: remove each leaf from the head, cutting off the base of each leaf where it is all white. Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel. Layer radicchio leaves on top of each other and slice into approximately ¾ inch slices, the slice the other direction, to make small pieces of radicchio. Place in a large bowl.
Clean the arugula and rinse and pat dry with a paper towel. Repeat the process of slicing the arugula in both directions to make small pieces of arugula, similar in size to the radicchio.
Using a vegetable peeler, shave pieces of the Parmesan cheese on top of the radicchio and arugula mixture. Add the onions. Toss well.
When ready to serve, add the balsamic dressing, a few tablespoons at first, being careful not to add too much.
Voila! A festive, delicious and healthful side dish to your holiday meal!
Serves 6.
Life is sweet,
SPC