Healthy Food Recipes: Scarole

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Additional Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of scarole (also known as escarole), washed and chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Steps to Cook:

1. Prepare the Scarole:

   • Wash the scarole thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels.
   • Chop the scarole into bite-sized pieces, discarding any tough or discolored leaves.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

3. Cook the Scarole:

   • Add the chopped scarole to the pan and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the scarole is wilted and tender.
   • Stir the scarole occasionally to ensure even cooking.

4. Add the Remaining Ingredients:

   • Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the pan.
   • Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the mixture and sprinkle the dried oregano.
   • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

5. Combine and Serve:

   • Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
   • Serve the scarole warm or at room temperature.

Cook’s Note:

• Scarole, also known as escarole, is a type of leafy green that is slightly bitter in taste. It’s a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
• If you prefer a less bitter flavor, you can soak the chopped scarole in cold water for 10-15 minutes before cooking to help reduce the bitterness.
• For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chickpeas, white beans, or grilled chicken to the dish.
• This recipe can be served as a side dish or a light main course. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple protein like grilled fish or roasted chicken.
• The balsamic vinegar and feta cheese add a nice balance of sweetness and tanginess to the dish.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of olive oil, garlic, or seasonings to suit your personal taste preferences.

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