Shaved Fennel Salad

When I first encountered the Shaved Fennel Salad, it was love at first bite. It was one of those sunny spring days, and I found myself wandering through a local farmer’s market, surrounded by vibrant colors and delightful aromas. There, I spotted the most beautiful fennel bulbs, their delicate fronds waving gently in the breeze. Intrigued, I decided to take a leap of faith and create a salad that would showcase their unique flavor. This Shaved Fennel Salad quickly became a staple in my kitchen, a refreshing dish that perfectly complements any meal. The crispness of the fennel, paired with zesty lemon and the creaminess of cheese, brings a burst of freshness and lightness that I can’t resist. Every bite transports me back to that market, reminding me of the joy of simple, wholesome ingredients.

Everything You Need for Shaved Fennel Salad

The ingredients for this Shaved Fennel Salad come together in a way that maximizes flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role in creating a well-rounded dish. The key players include the crisp fennel, the bright acidity from the lemon, and the rich creaminess of cheese, all harmonizing beautifully. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this delightful salad to life.

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: This is the heart of the dressing, providing richness and depth of flavor.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma that enhances the freshness of the salad.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: The acidity balances the salad, cutting through the richness of cheese and oil.
• 1 teaspoon honey: A touch of sweetness to complement the bold flavors.
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness to the dressing.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the flavors of all ingredients.
• Freshly ground black pepper: A staple seasoning for adding warmth and complexity.
• 2 medium fennel bulbs, thinly sliced on a mandoline, plus 2 tablespoons chopped fronds: The star of the dish, providing crunch and unique flavor.
• ⅓ cup shaved Parmesan or pecorino cheese: Creaminess and umami that elevates the salad.
• ⅓ cup toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds: Adds a nutty, crunchy element for texture.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with color and fresh herbal flavor.

Directions for Shaved Fennel Salad

Making this Shaved Fennel Salad is a straightforward delight. Each step flows seamlessly into the next, allowing you to create a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor. Here’s how I like to prepare it:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper. This creates a flavorful dressing that coats all the ingredients beautifully. Look for a smooth consistency as you whisk, ensuring all the flavors meld together.

2. Next, add the fennel slices to the bowl and gently toss them in the dressing to coat. As you toss, admire the beautiful sheen the dressing gives the fennel, making it glisten invitingly. Ensure each slice is well-coated to fully enjoy the flavor.

3. Now it’s time to bring in the other ingredients. Add the chopped fennel fronds, cheese, pine nuts, and parsley. Gently toss everything together, making sure the cheese and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the salad.

4. Season the salad to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed. This step is crucial as it allows you to customize the flavors according to your palate. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go!

5. Finally, serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor. The crunchiness of the fennel paired with the creamy cheese and the nutty pine nuts make for an irresistible dish that disappears quickly.

Recipe Variations about Shaved Fennel Salad

Looking to switch things up? Here are some variations and ideas to enhance your Shaved Fennel Salad experience:

• Add Fruits: Incorporate thinly sliced apples or pears for a sweet contrast to the fennel.
• Herb Blends: Try using mint or dill in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the fennel.
• Nut Options: Experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or pecans to bring unique flavors and textures.
• Grains: Serve over a bed of quinoa or farro for a heartier meal option.
• Vegan Version: Omit the cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative to keep it plant-based.
• Seeds: Swap nuts for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free variation.

Serving This Shaved Fennel Salad

Serving the Shaved Fennel Salad can be just as delightful as preparing it. Here are some ideas to make the most of this invigorating dish:

• With Grilled Fish: Pair it alongside grilled salmon or any white fish to enhance the meal with freshness and crunch.
• Picnic Perfect: This salad is a fantastic addition to any picnic spread, bringing a vibrant touch to your outdoor feast.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy it as a standalone dish for a light lunch, perhaps with some crusty bread on the side.
• Spring Gatherings: Serve it during spring celebrations or Easter brunch for a seasonal touch that’s sure to impress.
• Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a day, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Seasonal Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with seasonal sides like roasted asparagus or a warm quinoa dish.
• Garnish: Finish off with additional herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving for a polished look.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Shaved Fennel Salad is a celebration of freshness and flavor, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. I encourage you to try it out for your next meal, whether as a refreshing side or a light lunch. You won’t regret bringing this vibrant salad to your table!

Shaved Fennel Salad

The ultimate fresh and crisp dish, Shaved Fennel Salad combines the unique flavor of fennel with zesty lemon and creamy cheese. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is a refreshing choice for a light lunch or a side dish. Easy to prepare and delightful to taste, it’s a must-try that will impress your family and friends.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon Zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• to taste Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 medium fennel bulbs, thinly sliced on a mandoline, plus 2 tablespoons chopped fronds
• ⅓ cup shaved Parmesan or pecorino cheese
• ⅓ cup toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

• Mandoline Slicer
• Mixing bowls

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Add the fennel and toss to coat.
2. Add the fennel fronds, cheese, pine nuts, and parsley and gently toss. Season to taste and serve.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day.
• Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the texture of the fennel.
• Pairing: Serve alongside grilled fish or as part of a picnic spread.
• Variations: Try adding fruits like apples or pears for a different twist.
• Herb Options: Substitute parsley with mint or dill for unique flavors.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.