Braised Radicchio and Endive with Balsamic Reduction

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Slightly bitter radicchio and Belgian endive are braised until tender and served with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. This italian-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 35 minutes pairs medium head, quartered radicchio, heads, halved lengthwise Belgian endive, olive oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 110 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 110 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced shallots and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  2. Step 2: Place 1 medium quartered radicchio and 3 halved Belgian endives cut side down in the skillet. Cook without stirring for 5 minutes until the edges start to brown and caramelize.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon brown sugar until combined. Pour this mixture along with 1 cup vegetable broth into the skillet.
  4. Step 4: Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, then cover and reduce heat to low. Braise the greens for 12-15 minutes until tender and the liquid is reduced to a syrupy glaze.
  5. Step 5: Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2 minutes to thicken the balsamic reduction, then serve warm as a flavorful side.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Braised Radicchio and Endive with Balsamic Reduction take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Braised Radicchio and Endive with Balsamic Reduction?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep olive oil from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Braised Radicchio and Endive with Balsamic Reduction?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Braised Radicchio and Endive with Balsamic Reduction for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Braised Radicchio and Endive with Balsamic Reduction vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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