Description
Sweet, salty, and slightly bitter, this grilled radicchio appetizer is elegant yet easy. The balsamic fig glaze adds a touch of sophistication.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 heads radicchio
- 1/4 lbs (113 g) Prosciutto di Parma, thinly sliced
- 3 dried figs, finely chopped
- 1/2 cups (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Grill
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
Wrapping the Radicchio
- Take each quartered section of radicchio and wrap it with a slice of Prosciutto di Parma. Ensure that the prosciutto is wrapped snugly around the radicchio but not too tight as it will shrink upon cooking.
Seasoning and Grilling
- Brush each wrapped radicchio bundle with olive oil. Season the bundles with salt and pepper to taste. Place the wrapped radicchio on the preheated grill. Grill for 6-8 minutes, turning the bundles frequently. The goal is to crisp the prosciutto and tenderize the radicchio without burning.
Making the Balsamic Fig Reduction
- While the radicchio is grilling, combine the chopped dried figs and balsamic vinegar in a small pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the mixture to simmer and reduce until it thickens, approximately 6-8 minutes. The reduction should have a syrup-like consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even reduction.
Serving
- Arrange the grilled radicchio on a serving platter. Drizzle the balsamic fig reduction over the top of the radicchio bundles. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For optimal grilling, ensure your radicchio is dry; excess moisture will prevent proper crisping.
- If fresh figs are available, substitute 2-3 fresh figs, finely chopped, for the dried figs, adjusting balsamic vinegar as needed for desired sweetness.
- Store leftover grilled radicchio in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The balsamic glaze can be stored separately for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 radicchio quarter
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 10