Shredded Radicchio & Orange Slaw
This vibrant, refreshing slaw combines the crisp bitterness of radicchio with the bright sweetness of fresh oranges and aromatic mint. It's an effortlessly elegant side dish that perfectly complements grilled fish or chicken.
For 4 servings
Wash the radicchio thoroughly, pat it dry, then halve it and carefully remove the tough core. Finely shred the radicchio leaves using a sharp knife or mandoline and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Prepare the oranges: Using a sharp paring knife, slice off the top and bottom of each orange. Stand each orange on a cutting board and carefully slice downwards, following the curve of the fruit, to remove all peel and white pith. Hold the peeled orange over a small bowl to catch any juice, then carefully cut between the membranes to release individual segments. Add the segments to the bowl with the shredded radicchio. Squeeze any remaining juice from the membranes into the small bowl.
Prepare the dressing: To the reserved orange juice (you should have about 2-3 tablespoons), add the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, finely minced shallot (if using), honey or maple syrup (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add the chopped fresh mint to the bowl containing the radicchio and orange segments.
Pour the prepared dressing over the radicchio, orange, and mint mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve the slaw immediately for the best crisp texture, or chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning again just before serving if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To reduce radicchio's bitterness, you can soak the shredded leaves in ice water for 15-20 minutes before drying thoroughly. This helps mellow its sharp flavor.
- 2Ensure the radicchio is completely dry before dressing; excess water will dilute the vinaigrette and make the slaw watery.
- 3Segmenting oranges can be tricky; use a very sharp knife and work over a bowl to catch all the valuable juice for the dressing.
- 4This slaw is best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain crispness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nutty Crunch
Add 1/4 cup of toasted chopped pistachios or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Cheesy AdditionCheesy Addition
Crumble 1/4 cup of feta or goat cheese into the slaw for a creamy, salty counterpoint.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Replace mint with fresh parsley or basil for a different aromatic profile, or use a combination of herbs.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Radicchio contains powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Excellent Source of Vitamin C
Oranges are packed with Vitamin C, crucial for immune function, skin health, and acting as a potent antioxidant.
Digestive Health
Both radicchio and oranges provide dietary fiber, aiding in healthy digestion and promoting gut regularity.
Frequently asked questions
While best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispness, you can prepare the radicchio and orange segments, and make the dressing separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then combine and toss just before serving.
