Today I bring you into my kitchen to prepare a delicious and quick Radicchio and Pear Salad with Pecorino Shavings. A dish I love for its simplicity, the play of flavors, and because it always pairs well with any dish.
The bitterness of radicchio, the sweetness of the pear, the strong flavor of pecorino, the crunchiness of hazelnuts, and that citrusy touch of lemon really blend well together.
I like to serve it as a side dish or appetizer when I have guests, but also as a quick and light lunch, accompanied by a slice of toasted bread. It’s fresh, colorful, and really prepares in just a few minutes. Let me know in the comments if you’ll try it.
Anna – lappetitovienmangiando
If you like radicchio, don’t miss the upcoming recipes:
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 4 people
- Cooking methods: No cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Autumn, Winter
Ingredients
- 14 oz radicchio
- 1 large Abate pear
- Half lemon juice
- 1.4 oz pecorino romano shavings
- to taste peeled hazelnuts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- to taste salt and pepper
Tools
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Knife
- 1 Salad Spinner
- 1 Bowl
Preparation
I divide the radicchio heads in half, slice them into thin strips, rinse under running water, and dry them well with the salad spinner. Then I peel the pear, remove the core, cut it into pieces, and immediately drizzle with the juice of half a lemon, so it doesn’t darken.
In a large bowl, I toss in the salad and incorporate the pear pieces drained of lemon juice, the previously coarsely chopped hazelnuts, and season with extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper.
At this point, I transfer everything onto a serving dish and garnish with grated pecorino romano shavings and additional hazelnuts.
I serve my Radicchio and Pear Salad with Pecorino Shavings immediately.
Tips, Variations, and Storage
The radicchio, pear, and pecorino salad can be stored in the refrigerator for at least a day, but it will definitely lose texture.
I recommend dressing it at the last moment, so the radicchio remains crunchy and the pear does not release too much water.
For those who dare, try a light drizzle of chestnut honey for an even more intense sweet-salty contrast.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use a different type of pear?
Of course, the best varieties are the firm and sweet ones, like Kaiser or Conference
What kind of radicchio is best?
All varieties of radicchio are fine; it just depends on the level of bitterness you prefer.
Can a different type of cheese be used?
Yes, you can substitute pecorino romano with salted ricotta or goat cheese.
