Skip to main content

Insalata di Puntarelle

This Insalata di Puntarelle is a refreshing Italian-inspired salad that celebrates bold, punchy flavours and satisfying textures. Using a clever combination of Belgian endive and celery, this dish provides a wonderful crunch that mimics traditional Roman chicory. The vegetables are soaked in ice water to enhance their crispness, making them the perfect vessel for the savoury, umami-rich dressing made from garlic, anchovies and extra-virgin olive oil.

A fantastic choice for those seeking a diabetes-friendly starter or side dish, this salad is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in fibre. The sharp notes of red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard balance the saltiness of the anchovies, resulting in a sophisticated flavour profile. Serve it alongside grilled fish or roasted chicken for a light yet deeply flavourful homemade meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Insalata di Puntarelle

  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 3 anchovy fillets, rinsed, patted dry

  • Large pinch of coarse kosher salt

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

  • 4 large heads of Belgian endive (about 600g), halved lengthwise, then cut lengthwise into thin strips

  • 4 celery stalks (about 230g ), cut into 4-inch lengths, then cut lengthwise into thin strips

How to make Insalata di Puntarelle

Mix garlic, anchovies, and salt in small bowl. Mash with back of wooden spoon or firm spatula until paste forms. Whisk in oil, vinegar, and mustard. Season dressing to taste with salt and generously with pepper.

Place endive and celery in large bowl of ice water. Refrigerate 1 hour. Drain well. Place in clean bowl. Toss with anchovy dressing and serve.

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.