Radicchio is a member of the chicory family, a group of cabbage-like, leafy vegetables that are known for their spicy bitterness. It is sometimes referred to as Italian chicory because of its common use in Italian cooking, especially in pasta and rice dishes. Cooking reduces its bitterness, but also dulls its beautiful, vibrant color. Radicchio is also used in salads. You can tone down the bitterness by soaking the cut leaves in water. Get the recipe for radicchio salad here.
