Radicchio

Dating back to the sixteenth century, Radicchio originated in the Veneto region of northern Italy. This variety actually resembles a petite head of red cabbage producing variegated dark, burgundy leaves with contrasting white ribs. Besides, its smooth, crisp leaves offer a bitter flavor with a hint of spice. Good news is the bitter flavor is mellowed and rather takes on a subtle sweetness when this chicory is cooked. Nutritionally, chicory leaves possess probiotic activity that helps to maintain digestive health, not to mention that these leaves promote appetite.