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Scarola alla Napoletana Recipe Guide

Scarola alla Napoletana

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Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian

Equipment

  • Equipment Needed
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • 2 large heads of escarole about 1.5 lbs, washed and roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 4 anchovy fillets finely chopped (optional for vegetarians)
  • 1/3 cup black olives pitted and halved
  • 2 tablespoons capers rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts lightly toasted
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for a bit of heat
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Step-by-Step Method
  • Prepare the Escarole
  • Wash the escarole thoroughly under cold running water, as it often contains grit. Cut into large pieces and allow it to drain in a colander.
  • Toast the Pine Nuts
  • In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts until golden and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté the Aromatics
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Cook the Anchovies (Optional)
  • Stir in the chopped anchovy fillets. Cook until they dissolve into the oil, enhancing the dish with a savory depth of flavor.
  • Add the Escarole
  • Gradually add the escarole to the skillet, allowing it to wilt down before adding more. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  • Incorporate the Flavor Boosters
  • Once the escarole is wilted and tender (about 8-10 minutes), add the olives, capers, and toasted pine nuts. Mix well.
  • Season and Finish
  • Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Be cautious with salt since the olives, capers, and anchovies are already salty.
  • Serve Warm
  • Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle with a bit of extra-virgin olive oil if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy on its own with crusty bread.
  • Variations, Tips, and Substitutions
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the anchovies for a completely vegetarian dish.
  • Nut-Free Option: Skip the pine nuts and replace them with sunflower seeds or simply omit them.
  • Extra Protein: Add cooked cannellini beans for a heartier variation.
  • Make it Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes for more heat.
  • Serving Tip: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or as a topping for bruschetta.
    Scarola alla Napoletana Recipe Guide
Keyword Scarola alla Napoletana