Castelfranco Radicchio

Originating in the 17th century, Castelfranco raddichio is named after the Northern Italian town of Castelfranco Veneto where it was first cultivated. This uniquely colored variety has a bitter flavor but it is much milder with sweet undertones. As a matter of fact, soluble fiber which is found in all endive varieties including Castelfranco Veneto may help lower total blood cholesterol levels by lowering low-density lipoprotein, or "bad," cholesterol levels. Studies suggested that fiber may have other heart-health benefits, such as reducing blood pressure and inflammation.