With its deep purple-red leaves and natural bitterness, Raddicchio is a bit of an unsung hero as a simple, delicious side dish. However, roasting this vegetable transforms it into something tender, smoky, and caramelized. The edges crisp just enough to add texture, while a drizzle of honey or aged balsamic glaze tempers the bite with a hint of sweetness. Scattered with shaved Manchego and finished with flaky sea salt, each forkful is a perfect balance of bold and delicate flavors.

This dish is as versatile as it is beautiful—it can be a standout side dish for a holiday dinner party table or a sophisticated addition to a weeknight at home.

Here’s what you’ll need for this Roasted Raddichio side:

• Radicchio: quartered through the core, with a natural bitterness that softens and sweetens when roasted.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: coats the leaves for a golden, caramelized finish.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
• Red pepper flakes: just a pinch for warmth and subtle heat.
• Honey or aged balsamic glaze: a touch of sweetness to balance the radicchio’s bite.
• Shaved Manchego cheese: nutty, slightly salty, and buttery, scattered over the warm leaves.
• Flaky sea salt: for finishing, giving a satisfying crunch and sparkle.

Why use radicchio?

Cooking with radicchio is a game-changer for elevating simple dishes into something visually striking and flavor-forward. Its naturally bitter leaves develop a rich, slightly sweet flavor when roasted, grilled, or sautéed, adding depth and complexity to salads, pastas, and grain bowls. Beyond taste, radicchio is packed with antioxidants, vitamin K, and fiber, making it a nutrient-dense choice that’s as good for your body as it is for your table. Its bold color — deep burgundy with creamy white veins — brings instant elegance to any plate, making even weeknight dinners feel thoughtfully curated.

More radicchio recipes we love:

Pink Radicchio Salad

Bright and playful, this salad pairs crisp radicchio with delicate pink-hued ingredients for a visually stunning dish that tastes as light and refreshing as it looks.

White Bean and Radicchio Salad

Hearty yet vibrant, this salad balances the bitterness of radicchio with creamy white beans, making it a satisfying lunch or side that’s full of texture and flavor.

Chopped Radicchio Salad

Bold, crunchy, and flavorful, this chopped radicchio salad brings together savory toppings and a simple vinaigrette for a dish that’s effortless, colorful, and endlessly versatile.

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