Escarole

Escarole is a variety of endive (Cichorium endivia), a leafy green vegetable belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is known for its broad, curly leaves and slightly bitter taste. Escarole is often used in salads, soups, and sautéed dishes.

Description

Escarole has broad, slightly curly leaves that are less bitter than other varieties of endive. The outer leaves are darker green and more bitter, while the inner leaves are lighter and milder in flavor. The plant typically grows to about 12-18 inches in height.

Cultivation

Escarole is a cool-season crop that thrives in well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. It is typically planted in early spring or late summer. The plant requires regular watering and benefits from a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Escarole can be harvested about 85-100 days after planting.

Culinary Uses

Escarole is versatile in the kitchen and can be used in a variety of dishes:

• Salads: The mild, slightly bitter taste of escarole makes it a popular choice for salads, often paired with sweet or acidic dressings to balance the flavor.
• Soups: Escarole is a common ingredient in Italian soups, such as Italian wedding soup, where it is added towards the end of cooking to retain its texture.
• Sautéed Dishes: The leaves can be sautéed with garlic and olive oil for a simple side dish or added to pasta and grain dishes.

Nutritional Value

Escarole is low in calories but rich in vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate. It also provides dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

Health Benefits

The nutrients in escarole contribute to various health benefits:

• Eye Health: The high content of vitamin A supports good vision and eye health.
• Bone Health: Vitamin K is essential for bone health and helps in the prevention of osteoporosis.
• Digestive Health: The dietary fiber in escarole aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Related Pages

• Endive
• Asteraceae
• Italian wedding soup
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin K
• Folate

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