courtesy of PCC Community Markets

Bitter radicchio is perfectly balanced by sweet pears and aged balsamic vinegar in this easy side dish.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 slices bacon, chopped
4 firm-ripe pears, thickly sliced and seeded
1 large head radicchio, shredded
1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Method

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, vinegar and oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon, leaving about 1 tablespoon fat in the skillet.
3. Add pears and radicchio and cook over medium-high heat, stirring gently, until golden brown and just starting to soften, 5 to 7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper; transfer to a platter.
4. Drizzle dressing over pear mixture and sprinkle with bacon, hazelnuts and chives. Serve immediately.