Charred Chicory and Castelfranco Salad with Pomegranate
Rated 5.0 stars by 4 users
Author:
Drogo
Servings
2 - 3
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Discover a beautifully balanced salad that celebrates bold flavours and seasonal ingredients with this charred chicory and castelfranco salad with pomegranate recipe. Combining smoky grilled chicory, delicate Castelfranco leaves and jewel-like pomegranate seeds, this dish brings together bitterness, sweetness and freshness in every bite.
This elegant castelfranco salad is a sophisticated way to showcase Italian chicory, known for its beautiful appearance, crisp texture and subtle bitter notes. When lightly charred, the chicory develops a delicious caramelised flavour while maintaining its natural freshness, creating the perfect base for a refined charred chicory salad.
The addition of vibrant pomegranate adds a refreshing burst of sweetness, while balancing the earthy flavours of the greens. Ideal as a starter, side dish, or light seasonal meal, this recipe highlights how simple ingredients can create an impressive restaurant-style plate.
Perfect for entertaining, this salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or artisan cheeses. With its striking colours and elegant presentation, this charred chicory salad is a delicious way to bring modern European flavours to your table.
Ingredients
Charred Chicory and Castelfranco Salad with Pomegranate
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6 red chicory, halved
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½ castelfranco, leaves washed and dried
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2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
Directions
Method
Combine the pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, olive oil and some salt and pepper in a clean, lidded jar or bowl and shake or whisk to combine. Set aside.
Char the chicory in a griddle pan or on a BBQ for around 5 minutes, or until well charred.
Dress the chicory and castelfranco with the dressing and scatter with pomegranate seeds.
Recipe Note
What is a Castelfranco salad?
A castelfranco salad is a dish featuring Castelfranco chicory, an Italian leafy vegetable known for its creamy green leaves, red markings, crisp texture and delicate bitterness.
How do you make a charred chicory salad?
A charred chicory salad is made by grilling or roasting chicory until the edges become caramelised and smoky, then combining it with fresh ingredients, dressings and toppings.
What is Castelfranco chicory?
Castelfranco chicory is a traditional Italian variety of chicory with soft leaves and a mild flavour. It is often used in elegant salads and pairs well with sweet, acidic and savoury ingredients.
Can I use red chicory in this recipe?
Yes, red chicory salad variations work beautifully in this recipe. Red chicory adds vibrant colour and a slightly stronger bitter flavour that complements sweet ingredients like pomegranate.
Why add pomegranate to chicory salad?
A pomegranate chicory salad works because the juicy sweetness of pomegranate balances the natural bitterness of chicory, creating a fresh and flavourful combination.
