Scarole is a leafy green vegetable belonging to the *Cichorium endivia* family, a cultivar of the endive plant. It's characterized by its broad, curly, and slightly bitter leaves, which form a loose head similar to lettuce. scarole offers a crisp texture and a taste that balances bitterness with a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile ingredient in various culinary applications. It's rich in vitamins A and K, and provides dietary fiber. This vegetable can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in soups, stews, and stir-fries, offering a healthy addition to meals. It is important to note that scarole is easily confused with other endive varieties, but scarole is broader with a less distinct curl.
Scarole meaning with examples
- The chef used scarole as a base for a refreshing summer salad, pairing it with grilled peaches and a balsamic vinaigrette. Its slight bitterness was a delicious complement to the sweetness of the fruit. The crisp texture of the scarole provided a delightful contrast to the other ingredients, enhancing the overall eating experience. It gave the salad a unique element and the customer loved it.
- My grandmother always added scarole to her traditional Italian wedding soup. The slightly bitter flavor of the scarole balanced the richness of the broth and the other vegetables. She believed the scarole enhanced the soup's heartiness. Scarole's texture held up well during the simmering process, absorbing the flavors of the other components of the soup.
- In a Mediterranean-inspired dish, scarole was sauteed with garlic, olive oil, and sun-dried tomatoes. This method softens the bitterness of the scarole, creating a flavorful side dish. It offers a healthy and delicious complement. The slight char of the scarole made it a textural and tasteful dish. The dish was the customer’s favorite.
- For a quick and healthy lunch, I often make a sandwich using scarole instead of lettuce. Its sturdy leaves provide a good crunch. The slightly bitter taste adds complexity to the sandwich, making it more interesting than the usual lettuce-based alternative. The large leaves perfectly filled the sandwich and it was very enjoyable.
- During a farm-to-table dinner, the scarole was used to wrap up a delicious chicken pate. This created a beautiful presentation and added another layer of flavor to the dish. It kept the pate nicely contained and added textural complexity. The slightly bitter flavor was a surprising delight.