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Fennel and Celery Salad (Dama Bianca)

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This elegant fennel and celery salad, traditionally known as Dama Bianca, is a celebration of crisp textures and clean, bright flavours. The combination of thinly sliced aniseed-scented fennel and pale ribbons of celery creates a refreshing base that feels remarkably light. It is an excellent choice for a summer lunch or as a sophisticated palate cleanser between richer courses, showcasing how simple, high-quality ingredients can produce a truly refined result.

As a versatile vegetarian dish, this salad can be enjoyed on its own or elevated with the addition of creamy buffalo mozzarella for extra indulgence. The zesty lemon and fruity extra-virgin olive oil dressing ties everything together, highlighting the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Serve it alongside grilled fish or crusty sourdough bread for a healthy, seasonal meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

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Ingredients for Fennel and Celery Salad (Dama Bianca)

  • 2 medium fennel bulbs, stalks discarded

  • 6 pale inner (white) celery stalks, leaves discarded and stalks thinly sliced

  • 1 (1/2-pound) ball buffalo mozzarella (optional), roughly torn

  • 1/2 tablespoons grated lemon zest (preferably from an unwaxed organic lemon)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 90ml good-quality fruity extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1/4 teaspoons fine sea salt

How to make Fennel and Celery Salad (Dama Bianca)

Halve fennel lengthwise, then thinly slice crosswise about 1/4 inch thick. Toss with celery and arrange on a platter with mozzarella.

Whisk together zest, juice, oil, sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper and drizzle over salad.

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.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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