Name: Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium heads radicchio (about 1 pound); ⅓ cup Castelvetrano olives (chopped); 1 ounce parmesan (finely grated); 2 thick slices crusty sourdough bread (cut into large cubes, about 2 heaping cups); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste); 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 1 large clove garlic (grated or minced); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper (coarsely ground); ½ teaspoon sugar; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to bring a burst of bold, vibrant flavors and a wonderful mix of textures to your table, this Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad perfectly balances the slightly bitter, crisp radicchio leaves with the savory crunch of homemade breadcrumbs, briny Castelvetrano olives, and the sharp, nutty hint of finely grated parmesan. Tossed in a bright, zesty lemon-garlic dressing with a touch of creamy mayonnaise and rich extra virgin olive oil, every bite is a delightful dance of flavors. Whether as a refreshing starter or a stunning side dish, this Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to salads, especially when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

The image shows a white bowl filled with a salad that has three main layers. The bottom layer is leafy radicchio with deep purple and white colors and a rough texture. On top of it, there are chunks of light cream-colored cheese scattered unevenly. The salad is topped with a layer of chopped green olives and golden brown crumbled pieces, likely croutons, spread over the top, giving it a crunchy look. The bowl is placed on a dark metal tray, and next to it, there is a small white bowl with more chopped green olives and a jar with a creamy dressing. Two silver forks rest on the right side of the white bowl. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface with some crumbs scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a salad packed with flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays an important role—from the crunchy homemade breadcrumbs to the sharp bite of radicchio and the luscious, bright dressing.

Crusty sourdough bread (2 thick slices, cut into large cubes): The base for your homemade breadcrumbs providing a satisfying crunch and rustic texture.
Extra virgin olive oil (3 + ¼ tablespoons): Used both for toasting breadcrumbs and making the dressing, contributing fruity richness and smoothness.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
Radicchio (2 medium heads, about 1 pound): The star ingredient offering a pleasing bitterness and vibrant purple color that makes this salad visually stunning.
Castelvetrano olives (⅓ cup, chopped): Mild and buttery olives that add a wonderful briny contrast and a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Parmesan cheese (1 ounce, finely grated): Adds a salty, nutty depth that enriches the salad and complements the radicchio beautifully.
Lemon (zested and juiced): Brings bright citrus notes that lift the salad and cut through the bitterness.
Garlic (1 large clove, grated or minced): Infuses the dressing with savory warmth and a hint of pungency.
Sugar (½ teaspoon): Balances the bitterness of radicchio and the acidity of the lemon juice for a well-rounded flavor profile.
Mayonnaise (3 tablespoons): Adds silkiness to the dressing, binding the flavors and providing a luscious texture.

How to Make Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Radicchio

Start by discarding any browned or wilted outer leaves of the radicchio. Cut each head into quarters, then slice diagonally to remove the core. Chop the radicchio into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl or salad spinner filled with ice water. This soaking process refreshes the leaves, reduces some of the bitterness, and ensures they stay crisp and lively.

Step 2: Make the Breadcrumbs

While the radicchio chills, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Toss the sourdough bread cubes with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, along with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes until crisp and golden brown. Once cooled, chop the toasted bread into coarse crumbs that will add a wonderful crunchy texture to your salad.

Step 3: Whip Up the Dressing

Combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated garlic, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon sugar, mayonnaise, and ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil in a small container or mason jar. Shake vigorously or whisk until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed—you want it bright, balanced, and ready to bring all the ingredients together beautifully.

Step 4: Toss and Combine

Drain the radicchio and spin it dry or pat it carefully with a clean towel so there’s no excess water weighing the leaves down. Transfer the radicchio to a large bowl and pour over the dressing; toss thoroughly to coat every leaf. Next, add the chopped Castelvetrano olives, finely grated parmesan, and your crunchy breadcrumbs. Give everything one last gentle toss, then taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. This is your signal that the Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe is ready to serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe

A bowl filled with a salad that has three main layers: the base layer is made of torn radicchio leaves with deep red and white hues, providing a crisp texture; on top of that, there are chunks of creamy white cheese scattered unevenly; sprinkled over everything are bright green sliced olives and small golden brown crunchy crumbs. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface, with two silver forks placed inside the bowl. The setting includes some small white bowls with extra crumbs and olives partly visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate this salad to something truly special. Consider topping it with some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch and a toasty flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like flat-leaf parsley or basil adds a fresh, aromatic touch that complements the bitterness of the radicchio. For a festive presentation, shave a little more parmesan on top just before serving to give it a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth finish.

Side Dishes

This Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe works beautifully alongside grilled chicken, seared fish, or roasted vegetables. Its bold flavors stand up well against heartier mains without overpowering them, making it a perfect accompaniment for a summer dinner party or a casual family meal. Serve it as a light lunch with some crusty bread and perhaps a glass of crisp white wine for a meal that feels effortlessly elegant.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, consider layering the salad components in a clear glass bowl so you can see the kaleidoscope of colors and textures. Alternatively, you could serve it on rustic wooden boards or individual salad plates with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of finishing salt. For a more playful approach, try serving the salad in hollowed-out radicchio leaves as individual bite-sized cups, perfect for entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the breadcrumbs separate if possible, to maintain their crispiness. The salad can last for up to 2 days, but it’s worth noting that the radicchio may soften slightly over time, so enjoy it fresh for the best bite.

Freezing

This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the texture of the radicchio and the fresh dressing can be compromised after thawing. For the best experience, prepare fresh each time, or only freeze the homemade breadcrumbs separately if you want to save time in the future.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh salad best served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t recommended. If you want to enjoy warm bread crumbs, briefly toast them in a pan or oven before tossing with the salad again. The salad’s vibrant flavors shine brightest when served fresh and chilled.

FAQs

What makes radicchio different from other salad greens?

Radicchio has a distinctive bitter flavor and a beautiful deep reddish-purple color that adds both taste and visual appeal. Unlike milder greens, its slight bitterness brings complexity and contrast, especially when balanced with creamy and tangy ingredients.

Can I substitute another type of olive if I don’t have Castelvetrano olives?

While Castelvetrano olives are prized for their mild, buttery flavor, you can use other green olives or even Kalamata olives if you prefer a more robust, slightly salty taste. Just chop them finely and adjust the amount to taste.

Is there a vegan version of this Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan hard cheese alternative, and swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based version. The salad will still pack a punch of flavor and texture.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Yes, the dressing can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using to recombine the ingredients as they may separate over time.

What wine pairs well with this salad?

A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the bitterness of the radicchio and the tangy lemon dressing beautifully. These wines enhance the fresh and bright notes of the salad without overwhelming them.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe is more than just a salad—it’s an experience packed with vivid colors, exciting flavors, and delightful textures that will bring a fresh spark to your dining table. I hope you give it a try soon, whether for a casual meal or something more special. Once you taste this combination, it just might become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!

Italian Radicchio Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need