Escarole is a leafy green vegetable that is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great addition to any meal. With only 15 calories in 3 cups (85 g) of fresh chopped escarole, it is a perfect food for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
In addition to being low in calories, escarole is also packed with nutrients. It is a great source of vitamins A and K, as well as folate and fiber. Vitamins A and K are essential for eye health and blood clotting, respectively, while folate is important for cell growth and repair and fiber helps to keep your digestive system healthy.
In this article, we'll explore some of the health benefits of escarole and provide some tips for incorporating it into your diet.
Low-Calorie Food
As previously mentioned, escarole is a low-calorie food, meaning that it is a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain their current weight. With only 15 calories in 3 cups (85 g) of fresh chopped escarole, you can enjoy a lot of this delicious vegetable without worrying about consuming too many calories.
Packed with Nutrients
In addition to being low in calories, escarole is also packed with nutrients that are essential for overall health. As noted earlier, escarole is high in vitamins A and K, as well as folate and fiber. These nutrients help to support a healthy immune system, promote bone health, and support digestive health.
Boosts Immune System
Escarole is rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system. A strong immune system is essential for fighting off infections and illnesses, so incorporating escarole into your diet can help to keep you healthy all year round.
Supports Digestive Health
The fiber found in escarole helps to support digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. In addition, escarole contains inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber that helps to feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
Due to its low calorie and high nutrient content, escarole is a great food to include in a weight loss diet. It can help you to feel full and satisfied while consuming fewer calories, making it easier to stick to your calorie goals and lose weight.
Rich in Antioxidants
In addition to vitamin C, escarole contains other antioxidants such as beta-carotene and lutein, which help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases, so consuming foods that are high in antioxidants like escarole can help to protect your health.
Versatile Ingredient
Escarole is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with a wide range of ingredients, including citrus fruits, nuts, and cheese. It can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in soups, stews, and pasta dishes.
Elevates Flavors
One of the great things about escarole is that it can help to elevate the flavors of other ingredients in a dish. Its slightly bitter flavor can help to balance out rich or sweet flavors, while its crunchy texture can add a nice contrast to softer textures. If you're looking to enhance the flavors of your dishes, try incorporating some escarole into your next meal.
Easy to Prepare
Another great thing about escarole is that it is easy to prepare. Simply rinse the leaves under cold water, chop them up, and add them to your dish of choice. There's no need to cook escarole unless you prefer a softer texture, so it's a quick and easy ingredient to add to your meals.
Always Fresh
Escarole is a leafy green vegetable that is available year-round in most grocery stores. When selecting escarole, look for leaves that are crisp and a vibrant green color. You can store escarole in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient ingredient to have on hand whenever you need it.
Escarole is a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can help to support your overall health and elevate the flavors of your meals.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Fresh Chopped Escarole
1. What is escarole?
Escarole is a type of leafy green vegetable that is commonly used in Mediterranean cooking. It has a slightly bitter taste and can be eaten raw or cooked.
2. Is escarole good for you?
Yes, escarole is a nutritious vegetable that is low in calories and high in vitamins and fiber. It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
3. How do you prepare escarole?
Escarole can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as sautéing, grilling, or braising. It can also be used in soups and stews. Before cooking, it should be cleaned thoroughly and the tough outer leaves removed.
4. What dishes can I make with escarole?
Escarole is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. It is a popular addition to soups and stews, and can also be used in salads, pasta dishes, and even as a pizza topping.
5. Where can I buy fresh chopped escarole?
Fresh chopped escarole can be found at most supermarkets in the produce section. It can also be purchased at farmer's markets or specialty food stores.