Alice con la giardiniera

Alice con la giardiniera is a traditional Italian antipasto consisting of anchovies paired with giardiniera, a medley of pickled vegetables. This dish is characterized by the sensory interplay between the savory, salty profile of the fish and the bright, acidic crunch of the preserved vegetables.

The dish finds a notable presence in Monforte d'Alba, Italy, where it is served at the venue Lostu, a recommendation highlighted by Franchino Er Criminale. The core ingredients typically include salt-cured or oil-marinated anchovies (alice) served alongside a variety of vegetables—such as carrots, celery, cauliflower, and bell peppers—all preserved in a vinegar-based brine.

A high-quality version of the dish is distinguished by the precision of its seasoning and the texture of its components. The anchovies must be tender and well-cured, avoiding an overwhelming saltiness, while the giardiniera must maintain a distinct crunch to provide a necessary textural counterpoint to the soft fish. Regional variations often depend on the specific vegetable assortment used or the intensity of the pickling liquid; some iterations may lean more heavily on citrus or specific spices to further temper the salinity of the anchovies, while others may vary the ratio of oil to vinegar in the marinade.