Cicoria Ripassata Recipe Guide

Cicoria Ripassata
Equipment
- Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling chicory
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Colander for draining
- Knife and cutting board
- Serving dish
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 1 pound of chicory or a similar green, such as Swiss chard or kale
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon optional, for brightness
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving
Instructions
- Method
- Prepare the Chicory:
- Start by rinsing the chicory thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Trim the ends and remove any tough outer leaves.
- Cut the chicory into manageable pieces, about 1–2 inches long.
- Blanch the Chicory:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
- Carefully add the chicory to the boiling water and blanch for about 2–3 minutes, until just tender. This step helps to reduce bitterness.
- Using a colander, drain the chicory and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic brown.
- Add the Chicory:
- Carefully add the blanched chicory to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the garlic oil.
- Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicory is tender and heated through.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the dish for added flavor.
- Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
- Variations
- For a vegan option: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add Protein: Toss in some cooked cannellini beans or chickpeas to make it more substantial.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
Cicoria Ripassata, or sautéed chicory, is a delicious and nutritious dish that showcases the earthy flavors of chicory greens, often enjoyed in Italian cuisine. This dish is not only simple to make but also offers a great way to incorporate healthy greens into your diet. From my own personal experience, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be served as a hearty side dish. Let me show you how I make this delightful recipe.

Notes on What to Expect
Cicoria Ripassata is a beautifully vibrant dish with a perfect balance of garlic and earthy chicory flavors. The texture should be tender yet slightly crisp, with a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes if added.
Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Time to Stand: 5 minutes (optional)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Ease of Cooking: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 150
- Cost of Ingredients: $10–$15
- Cuisine: Italian
- Course: Side Dish
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling chicory
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Colander for draining
- Knife and cutting board
- Serving dish
- > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory #Cicoria Ripassata now.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of chicory (or a similar green, such as Swiss chard or kale)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory #Cicoria Ripassata now.
Method
- Prepare the Chicory:
- Start by rinsing the chicory thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Trim the ends and remove any tough outer leaves.
- Cut the chicory into manageable pieces, about 1–2 inches long.
- Blanch the Chicory:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
- Carefully add the chicory to the boiling water and blanch for about 2–3 minutes, until just tender. This step helps to reduce bitterness.
- Using a colander, drain the chicory and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic brown.
- Add the Chicory:
- Carefully add the blanched chicory to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the garlic oil.
- Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicory is tender and heated through.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the dish for added flavor.
- Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Variations
- For a vegan option: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add Protein: Toss in some cooked cannellini beans or chickpeas to make it more substantial.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
- > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory #Cicoria Ripassata now.
Tips
- If chicory is unavailable, Swiss chard or kale can be excellent substitutes.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicory during the blanching step to maintain a pleasant texture.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Calorie: Use less olive oil and skip the cheese for a lighter dish.
Nutritional Information Per Serving
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: Varies based on salt added
Closing
I hope this guide has made making Cicoria Ripassata seem a little less daunting. Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment! Enjoy your cooking!

Hello all,
Zio Leo here!
Cooking and sharing great food brings people together in the most authentic way, in my own personal experience, and with a lifelong passion for Italian cuisine, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and stories that celebrate the rich flavors of Italy. From classic dishes to modern twists, have my guides inspired you to bring a little bit of Italy into your kitchen? Please, be honest with me here. Leave your comments down below. I’d love to hear from real people like you. Read more about me here! =>>