Round Radicchio

At all stages of ripening, this radicchio is round in shape, very compact, bright red in colour, and has crisp white ribbing. It is consumed throughout the year and all over Italy.

Radicchio is an ally for the bowels, cardiovascular and nervous system, and the skin. It contains mainly potassium but also magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, sodium, iron, copper, and manganese, not to mention vitamins B, C, E, K. Thanks to a high percentage of water, radicchio is depurative, and can also be a great help for relief in constipation and indigestion. The fibre contained in radicchio helps retain blood sugars so is a recommended food for those who suffer from type 2 diabetes.

Round red radicchio, like all plants of this colour, is rich in antioxidants. It contains anthocyanins and tryptophan: the former helping reduce cardiovascular risk factors, and the latter to fight insomnia. This type of radicchio is usually eaten in salads, but is also tasty in risotto.