These cheesy, spicy greens are a local favorite in restaurants and home kitchens in Utica, New York, home to a large Italian-American population. There are many variations, some with fried potatoes or sausage chunks added, or Swiss chard, spinach, kale, or broccoli rabe instead of the escarole. The greens are so beloved that each year the Utica Music and Arts Fest invites different restaurants to the music festival to serve their special versions. You can also serve these as an appetizer with hunks of crusty bread or in a sandwich with grilled sausages or breaded veal cutlets.
Utica Greens Spicy Escarole is a flavorful and hearty dish inspired by the culinary traditions of Utica, New York. This recipe combines the bitterness of escarole with the savory goodness of prosciutto, tangy pickled peppers, and a touch of spice. The result is a satisfying and robust dish that is perfect as a side or even a main course.
Escarole, a leafy green vegetable, is the star of this dish. Its slightly bitter flavor mellows as it cooks, providing a pleasant contrast to the other ingredients. The prosciutto adds a salty and savory element, while the pickled hot cherry peppers or peperoncini contribute a tangy and spicy kick. These flavors come together beautifully, creating a unique and vibrant taste experience.
Preparing Utica Greens Spicy Escarole is simple and straightforward. The escarole is blanched to soften its leaves and remove any bitterness. Then, it is sautéed with garlic, prosciutto, and pickled peppers in olive oil until well mixed. A generous topping of bread crumbs and Pecorino Romano cheese adds a crunchy and cheesy layer that is broiled until golden and delicious.
Serves 4 to 6
INGREDIENTS
- Salt
- 1½ pounds escarole, washed and trimmed
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 2 ounces sliced prosciutto (about 4 slices), chopped
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 4–5 pickled hot cherry peppers or peperoncini, seeded and chopped
- Freshly ground pepper
- 2 tablespoons plain dry bread crumbs
- ½ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano
INSTRUCTIONS
- Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil.
- Add the escarole to the boiling water and cook for 5 minutes, or until wilted.
- Drain the escarole well.
- In a large ovenproof skillet, cook the garlic and prosciutto in the olive oil over medium heat until the prosciutto is golden, about 3 minutes.
- Add the escarole, pickled peppers, and pepper to taste to the skillet. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes, or until thoroughly mixed. Remove from the heat.
- Spread the escarole mixture evenly in the skillet.
- Adjust the broiler rack to be about 3 inches away from the heat source and turn on the broiler.
- Toss together the bread crumbs and pecorino romano cheese.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb and cheese mixture over the escarole.
- Place the skillet under the broiler for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the topping is golden.
- Serve.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Utica Greens Spicy Escarole is often served as a side dish alongside classic Italian-American mains like chicken Parmesan, sausage and peppers, or pasta dishes. The flavors complement rich and hearty dishes, providing a refreshing contrast.
- For a complete meal, serve Utica Greens Spicy Escarole as a main course. Pair it with crusty bread or polenta for a satisfying vegetarian option. You can also top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Enjoy the dish as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Spread some creamy ricotta cheese or goat cheese on bread or tortillas, and layer with the spicy escarole mixture for a flavorful and satisfying lunch.
- Utica Greens Spicy Escarole can be a great addition to pizza. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on pizza dough, top with mozzarella cheese, and add the escarole mixture as a unique and delicious pizza topping. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve the dish with a side of crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the flavorful juices.
Utica Greens Spicy Escarole is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Utica’s culinary heritage to your table. Whether served as a side or a main course, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying combination of ingredients.
