Radicchio Salad with Caramelized Carrots and Onions

A vibrant winter salad featuring bitter radicchio, sweet caramelized carrots and onions, fresh oranges, and toasted almonds, all tossed in a citrus-honey vinaigrette. This colorful dish balances sweet, bitter, and citrus flavors with wonderful textural contrasts.

6 servings
47 min

Ingredients

  • ½ cup sliced almonds
  • 2 pounds carrots
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons thyme leaves
  • teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 medium red onions
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2⅓ tablespoons sherry vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 large head radicchio
  • 4 whole oranges
  • 2 cups parsley leaves

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast almonds on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing halfway through, until golden brown, 8-10 minutes; set aside.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Cook carrots, 2 Tbsp. oil, 1 Tbsp. thyme, 1 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. red pepper, and 1 cup water in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until water is evaporated, about 15 minutes. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until carrots are lightly browned and tender, about 5 minutes more.

    20 min

  3. 3.

    Meanwhile, heat 2 Tbsp. oil in another large skillet over medium-high. Add onions, 1 tsp. salt, and remaining 1 Tbsp. thyme and 1/4 tsp. red pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are lightly browned and tender, 10-12 minutes.

    12 min

  4. 4.

    Whisk garlic, vinegar, orange juice, honey, and remaining 1/4 cup oil and 3/4 tsp. salt in a large bowl. Add carrot mixture, onion mixture, radicchio, orange slices, and parsley and toss to coat. Top with reserved almonds.

    5 min