Radicchio Variegato di Castelfranco IGP: The Speckled Jewel Chefs Love

Oct 2, 2025 | Products

Image of Radicchio Variegato di Castelfranco IGP.

If you’ve ever spotted a head of pale butter-yellow leaves delicately freckled with wine-red spots, you’ve met Radicchio Variegato di Castelfranco IGP. Nicknamed the “orchid lettuce” for its rosette shape and painterly pattern, this specialty chicory from Castelfranco Veneto, Italy delivers a gentle, elegant bitterness and exceptional plate appeal—perfect for Boston’s chef-driven kitchens.

What “IGP” Means—And Why It Matters

Indicazione Geografica Protetta (IGP) protects foods whose quality and reputation are tied to a specific place. With Castelfranco, that means traditional cultivation methods and a distinct flavor profile: mild, nutty, and pleasantly bitter with sweet undertones—more subtle than Treviso or Verona types.

Flavor & Nutrition

  • Taste: Mild, slightly bitter, with a sweet finish
  • Texture: Tender, crisp, layered leaves that hold dressings beautifully
  • Nutrition: Low-calorie, a source of vitamins A & K and antioxidants

How to Prep (Without Bruising)

  1. Trim the stem, remove any tired outer leaves.
  2. Rinse quickly in cold water; spin dry thoroughly.
  3. Keep leaves whole for dramatic plating or tear by hand to avoid browning.
  4. Dress at the pass—Castelfranco wilts slightly if dressed too early.

Buying & Storing Tips

  • Selection: Look for tight, compact rosettes with creamy leaves and vivid speckles.
  • Storage: Wrap loosely in paper towels; refrigerate in a ventilated container.
  • Shelf life: 4–6 days at peak quality.

Menu Ideas (Front-of-House Eye Candy)

  • Citrus & Walnut Salad: Castelfranco, blood orange, toasted walnuts, shaved fennel, pecorino, lemon-honey vinaigrette.
  • Charred Castelfranco: Quick kiss on a hot grill, finish with anchovy-garlic butter and lemon zest.
  • Crudo Upgrade: Whole leaves as edible cups for scallop or hamachi crudo.
  • Warm Mushroom Toss: Sautéed wild mushrooms, thyme, and a splash of Marsala over torn leaves.

Seasonality & Pairings

Peak availability runs late fall through winter. Pairs beautifully with citrus, pears, apples, pomegranate, hazelnuts, aged cheeses, fatty fish, and roast poultry or game.

Sourcing in Boston—Alpha’s Produce

At Alpha’s Produce of Boston, we source gorgeous, chef-grade Castelfranco IGP with consistent sizing and case quality. Contact Us to order.