ESCAROLE, OLIVES, CAPERS AND ANCHOVIES (SCAROLE ALLA NAPOLETANA)

Neapolitan-style escarole is a recipe that leaves its mark: not the simple sour vegetable nor the heavier vegetable repassed in a pan.

A simple dish in the mouth, it manages to give balance to the many “small” ingredients that make it up.

Neapolitan-style escarole is a side dish that we can prepare all year round.

To prepare it, simply add the following ingredients to the escarole: olives, raisins, anchovies and walnuts (or pine nuts).

Each of these ingredients participates in the play of contrast between bitter, sweet and salty typical of Neapolitan-style escarole.

Escarole with Olives, Capers, and Anchovies is a classic Italian recipe that transforms humble ingredients into a bold and flavorful dish. This rustic side combines tender escarole with the briny depth of olives, capers, and anchovies for a savory, umami-packed experience. Perfect for pairing with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even pasta, this dish is a versatile addition to any meal.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to prepare this traditional recipe, offer tips for perfecting it, and share creative serving ideas.

Why You’ll Love Escarole with Olives, Capers, and Anchovies

This dish is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors: the slight bitterness of escarole is perfectly balanced by the salty richness of anchovies and the tangy notes of olives and capers. With its quick preparation and robust flavor, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or as part of an Italian-inspired feast.

ESCAROLE, OLIVES, CAPERS AND ANCHOVIES Recipe:

SERVINGS:4

• 1 escarole
• 2 anchovy fillets in oil
• 15 black pitted olives
• 1/4 cup of raisins
• 1/4 cup of pine nuts
• salt to taste
• extra virgin olive oil to taste

METHOD:

Clean the escarole thoroughly and slice the leaves, then throw them into plenty of boiling salted water for 10 minutes.
After the time has elapsed, drain.

Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan, then add the poached garlic and anchovy fillets and let them sauté.

After that, add the escarole and let it cook with the lid on and medium-low heat for 10 minutes.

Finally, add the olives, raisins and pine nuts.

Sauté for 10 minutes and serve at the table!

Tips for Perfect Escarole with Olives, Capers, and Anchovies

1. Balance the flavors: Be mindful of the saltiness from the anchovies, olives, and capers when seasoning the dish.
2. Blanch for better texture: Blanching the escarole helps remove some of its bitterness while softening the leaves.
3. Use fresh ingredients: High-quality olive oil, fresh escarole, and good anchovies make a big difference in this dish’s flavor.
4. Customize the heat: Adjust the chili flakes to your spice preference or omit them altogether.

Variations of Escarole with Olives, Capers, and Anchovies

1. Add protein: Incorporate cooked white beans, chickpeas, or shredded chicken for a more filling dish.
2. Tomato twist: Toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.
3. Cheesy addition: Top with grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
4. Pasta pairing: Mix the finished dish with cooked pasta for an easy one-bowl meal.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Escarole with Olives, Capers, and Anchovies is a simple yet sophisticated dish that captures the heart of Italian cuisine. Its bold, briny flavors and tender greens make it a standout side dish, while its versatility ensures it can complement a variety of main courses.

Serving Suggestions

• With grilled fish or chicken: The bold flavors of this dish pair beautifully with simple, grilled proteins.
• As a pasta topping: Serve over linguine or spaghetti with a drizzle of olive oil for a quick dinner.
• Alongside crusty bread: Use fresh bread to soak up the flavorful oil and juices.
• As part of an antipasto platter: Serve warm or at room temperature alongside other Italian appetizers.

Conclusion

Escarole with Olives, Capers, and Anchovies is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Its bold flavors, simple preparation, and versatility make it a must-try recipe for any fan of Italian cuisine. Give it a try today and experience the perfect balance of savory, briny, and slightly bitter flavors in every bite!