WILTED ESCAROLE SALAD

Wilted Escarole Salad image

Provided by Amanda Hesser

Yield Makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

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1/2 loaf country-style bread (about 8 ounces), crust removed, torn into 1" pieces (about 5 cups)
7 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
2 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
1-2 anchovy fillets packed in oil
1/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons (or more) white wine vinegar
1 large head escarole, outer leaves removed, inner leaves torn into large pieces

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Toss bread and 3 tablespoons oil on a large rimmed baking sheet, squeezing bread so it absorbs oil evenly; season with salt and pepper. Spread out bread pieces in an even layer and bake, tossing occasionally, until crisp on the outside but still chewy in the center, 10-15 minutes. Let croutons cool.
Meanwhile, heat remaining 4 tablespoons oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring often, until golden, about 2 minutes. Add anchovies and, using a spoon, mash into oil. Add red pepper flakes and remove skillet from heat. Add vinegar, scraping up any bits; season vinaigrette with salt and pepper.
Just before serving, toss escarole, croutons and warm vinaigrette in a large bowl until escarole is slightly wilted; season with salt, pepper, and more vinegar, if desired.
DO AHEAD: Croutons and vinaigrette can be made and escarole can be prepped 1 day ahead. Store croutons wrapped airtight at room temperature. Let vinaigrette cool; cover and chill. Gently reheat vinaigrette before using.