Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure that transports you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of Italy. This Chicory Salad with White Beans, Anchovies, and Parmesan is more than just a recipe—it's a symphony of bold flavors, textures, and nutritional powerhouses that will revolutionize your approach to healthy eating. Packed with protein, vibrant greens, and umami-rich ingredients, this dish is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicory, chopped
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 anchovy fillets, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicory. Rinse the 2 cups of chicory under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicory with the drained and rinsed can of white beans. Ensure the beans are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- Next, add the 4 chopped anchovy fillets to the bowl. These will add a savory depth of flavor to the salad.
- Sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, which will add a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture to the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to create a simple dressing. This will enhance the freshness of the salad.
- Pour the olive oil and lemon juice dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt, as the anchovies and Parmesan already contribute saltiness.
- Once everything is well combined, serve the salad immediately on plates or in a large serving bowl. Enjoy your chicory salad as a refreshing appetizer or side dish!
Tips
- Choose fresh, crisp chicory for the best texture and flavor. Look for leaves that are bright green and free from wilting.
- Rinse your white beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve their texture.
- For a more intense flavor, lightly toast the Parmesan cheese before adding it to the salad.
- If you're not a fan of anchovies, you can substitute with capers for a similar briny flavor profile.
- For extra crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs as a garnish.
- Serve the salad immediately after dressing to prevent the chicory from becoming soggy.
- For a lighter dressing, you can replace some olive oil with a splash of white wine vinegar for added brightness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 172kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 13mg
