Skip to main content

Sauteed Escarole

This sautéed escarole is a sophisticated side dish that brings a touch of Mediterranean flair to the dinner table. Often overlooked in favour of spinach or kale, escarole offers a pleasantly bitter edge that mellows beautifully when blanched and sautéed. The combination of pungent garlic, a hint of chilli heat, and the savoury depth of anchovies creates a complex flavour profile that perfectly complements grilled meats or roasted fish.

As a diabetes-friendly recipe, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in fibre, making it an excellent choice for those seeking heart-healthy and nutritionally balanced options. The use of extra-virgin olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the quick cooking method ensures the greens retain their texture. Serve it warm as a nourishing accompaniment to a Mediterranean-style Sunday roast or a simple midweek meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Sauteed Escarole

  • 1.8kg escarole (about 4 heads), cored and coarsely chopped

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil plus additional for drizzling

  • 5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 teaspoons dried hot red pepper flakes

  • 1 (60g) can anchovy fillets in olive oil, drained, patted dry, and chopped

How to make Sauteed Escarole

Wash escarole well in a sinkful of water, then lift out and drain. Cook escarole in a 7- to 8-quart heavy pot of boiling salted water until tender, about 10 minutes, then drain in a colander.

Heat oil in same pot over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring, until garlic is golden, about 1 minute. Add anchovies, then reduce heat to moderate and cook, stirring, until dissolved, about 1 minute. Add escarole, stirring to coat with oil, then increase heat to moderately high and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until escarole is tender and most of liquid is evaporated, 8 to 10 minutes. Season lightly with salt.

Spoon onto a platter and drizzle with oil to taste.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.