A cutting insert has a cutting edge formed at the intersection of a side surface an end surface. Recesses formed in the side surface interrupt the cutting edge at recessed cutting edge portions. Each recessed cutting edge portion has, in an end view of the cutting insert, a curved central section located between two curved side sections. The central section has a first radius of curvature and each side section has a second radius of curvature, the first radius of curvature being larger than the second radius of curvature.