Lunch: Grilled "Tricolore" Salad with Radicchio, Fennel and Parsley

Recipe by Kristin Donnelly Grilling radicchio and fennel tames their intense flavors, bringing out their natural sweetness.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Grilled "Tricolore" Salad with Radicchio, Fennel and Parsley

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

1 small heads radicchio (about 3/4 pound), cut into 6 wedges through the core
1 large fennel bulb, sliced lengthwise 1/3 inch thick
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more, for brushing
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 cup parsley leaves, half left whole and half roughly chopped
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
1 teaspoon mustard
1/2 teaspoon honey
Pecorino cheese, for shaving

Instructions

Light a grill and preheat for at least 10 minutes or preheat a grill pan. Brush the cut sides of the radicchio and fennel with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the radicchio with one of the cut sides down and the fennel over moderately high heat until the radicchio is charred and the fennel has dark brown grill marks, about 2 minutes. Turn the radicchio so the other cut sides are down and flip the fennel and grill for about 2 minutes longer.
Transfer the radicchio and fennel to a cutting board and let cool slightly. Thinly slice the radicchio crosswise, discarding the core. Slice the fennel lengthwise 1/3 inch thick and discard the core.
In a bowl, whisk the vinegar with the mustard and honey. Gradually add the 1/4 cup of olive oil in a thin stream, whisking. Add the radicchio, fennel and parsley leaves to the dressing and toss well. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the salads to plates. Using a vegetable peeler, shave some pecorino on top, then serve.

Share Grilled "Tricolore" Salad with Radicchio, Fennel and Parsley