Puntarelle Alla Romana
Experience the vibrant flavors of Rome with this classic Puntarelle Alla Romana. Tender, crisp puntarelle chicory is transformed into delicate curls after an ice bath, then tossed in a bright, pungent dressing made with anchovy, garlic, and lemon. This refreshing salad offers a delightful balance of bitterness and umami, making it an exquisite side dish.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 35 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
Allergen information: may contain fish. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
Ingredients
- 1 pcspuntarelle, cleaned, cored, and sliced into thin strips
dressing
- 2 clovegarlic, finely minced
- 1 tspanchovy paste
- 2 tbsplemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 4 tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 tspsalt
- 0.25 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
Equipment
Large bowl · Small bowl · Whisk · Chef's knife · Cutting board · Salad spinner (optional) · Kitchen towel · Serving bowl
The method
Step by step
- 1
Prepare the puntarelle by carefully removing the tough outer leaves and separating the tender inner shoots.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Look for puntarelle with firm, bright green leaves and tight, pale inner shoots for the best texture and flavor.
- 2
Slice the inner puntarelle shoots lengthwise into thin strips, approximately 1/4 inch wide.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Uniformly slicing the shoots ensures they curl evenly and absorb the dressing better.
- 3
Submerge the sliced puntarelle in a large bowl filled with ice water for at least 15 minutes.
About 15 min
Cook’s note: The cold water shocks the chicory, causing the strips to curl beautifully and become exceptionally crisp. The colder the water, the more pronounced the curl.
- 4
While the puntarelle chills, finely mince the garlic cloves.
Cook’s note: For a more intense garlic flavor, you can crush the garlic into a paste using the side of your knife.
- 5
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, anchovy paste, fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Cook’s note: Whisk the dressing vigorously until it emulsifies slightly and all ingredients are well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 6
Drain the puntarelle thoroughly from the ice water.
Cook’s note: Shake off excess water before transferring to a salad spinner or patting dry.
- 7
Pat the puntarelle completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or spin it in a salad spinner.
Cook’s note: Ensuring the puntarelle is very dry is crucial; any residual water will dilute the dressing and prevent it from adhering properly.
- 8
Transfer the dried, curled puntarelle to a serving bowl.
- 9
Pour the prepared dressing over the puntarelle.
- 10
Gently toss the salad to ensure every piece of puntarelle is evenly coated with the vibrant dressing.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Use salad tongs or your hands to toss carefully, preserving the delicate curls of the chicory.
- 11
Serve the Puntarelle Alla Romana immediately as a refreshing side dish.
Cook’s note: This salad is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate its crisp texture and bright flavors.
Keep it good
Puntarelle Alla Romana pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or as a refreshing counterpoint to richer pasta dishes. For a vegetarian version, omit the anchovy paste and consider adding a pinch of capers or a dash of tamari for an umami boost. A crisp, dry white wine like a Vermentino or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the salad beautifully.
Store any leftover Puntarelle Alla Romana in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicory may lose some of its crispness over time.
This salad is best served fresh and cold; reheating is not recommended.
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