Fennel and Orange Salad Recipe
This refreshing and vibrant Fennel and Orange Salad is a perfect balance of crisp and juicy, featuring the natural sweetness of oranges and the fresh, anise-like flavor of fennel. Itโs topped with crunchy pumpkin seeds and pine nuts, creating a delightful texture contrast, while the addition of raisins soaked in vinegar adds a subtle tangy sweetness that elevates the entire dish. Ideal as a starter or a side dish, this salad is light, aromatic, and beautifully colorful.
Servings: 6
Category: Salads
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fennel bulbs | 840g |
| Oranges | 2 |
| Pine nuts | 50g |
| Raisins | 20g |
| Salt | to taste |
| Olive oil | 50g |
| Vinegar (white wine or apple cider) | 3g |
| Pumpkin seeds | 8g |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fennel
Begin by slicing the fennel bulbs. Cut off the base and remove the tough outer leaves to reveal the tender heart. Using a mandoline, carefully slice the fennel into very thin slices to ensure a delicate texture. Once sliced, transfer the fennel to a bowl filled with cold water and a splash of lemon or vinegar (this helps preserve the vibrant color and prevents oxidation). Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients. -
Slice the Oranges
Cut the two oranges in half. Squeeze the juice from one of the halves into a small bowl to use later for the dressing. For the remaining orange, carefully peel it and slice it into thin rounds or segments, removing any seeds. These juicy orange pieces will add sweetness and zest to the salad. -
Toast the Pine Nuts
In a dry, non-stick skillet, add the pine nuts. Toast them over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are golden and fragrant. This step adds a delightful nutty flavor to the salad, enhancing its overall depth. Be careful not to burn themโpine nuts toast quickly! -
Soak the Raisins
Place the raisins in a small bowl and cover them with the vinegar. Let them soak for a few minutes to plump up, allowing the raisins to absorb some of the tangy flavor. This gives them a slight tartness that balances out the sweetness of the oranges and raisins. -
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the orange juice with olive oil. Add salt to taste and whisk together until the ingredients emulsify into a smooth, homogenous dressing. The vinegar from the raisins adds a bit of tang to this dressing, making it wonderfully balanced. If needed, adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or vinegar based on your preference. -
Assemble the Salad
Drain the fennel slices and add them to a large salad bowl. Gently toss the fennel with the orange slices. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture, tossing again to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Next, fold in the soaked raisins and sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top. -
Add a Crunchy Touch
For the final touch, sprinkle the pumpkin seeds over the salad. These seeds provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender fennel and juicy orange slices. -
Serve and Enjoy
The fennel and orange salad is now ready to serve! The combination of fresh, crisp fennel, citrusy oranges, sweet raisins, and crunchy seeds makes for a vibrant, light, and nourishing dish. Serve immediately as a refreshing starter or as a delightful side salad alongside your favorite main course.
Tips for Perfection:
- Chill the Fennel: If you have time, chilling the fennel slices in the fridge before assembling the salad can make them even crisper, enhancing the overall texture.
- Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a richer dressing, you can add a teaspoon of honey or a dash of mustard to create a more complex flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the components ahead of timeโslice the fennel and oranges and toast the pine nuts, but wait until just before serving to toss the salad with the dressing. This ensures the salad stays crisp and fresh.
- Try Variations: Add other ingredients like olives or fresh herbs (like mint or basil) to give the salad your own twist.
This Fennel and Orange Salad will not only brighten up your meal but also delight your senses with its complex yet balanced flavors. Perfect for holiday dinners, casual weeknight meals, or even as a light lunch, this salad is an excellent addition to any recipe repertoire. Enjoy the refreshing taste of citrus combined with the earthiness of fennel, making this dish a wonderful addition to your salad repertoire!
