Oh, fennel salad! It always brings back memories of Italy. I remember a charming trattoria in Rome. I was skeptical to try something new. But one bite of that fennel salad, and I was smitten.
This is not just an ordinary salad. It is a blend of crisp, shaved fennel with a hint of anise, paired with bright citrus notes dancing on your tongue. The magic is in how these simple ingredients come together, creating something delicious.
Even those who dislike fennel become fans after trying this salad. The thinly sliced fennel transforms. It becomes delicate and nearly sweet, losing that strong licorice taste that some find unappealing.
As I said, I first had shaved fennel in Rome. It was a warm summer night. I wandered the cobblestone streets, looking for dinner. I found a cozy, family-run restaurant in a quiet alley.
The waiter, an older man with a deep Roman accent and sparkling eyes, suggested their house specialty—a shaved fennel and citrus salad. He spoke of it with passion, so I couldn’t resist, despite my doubts.
When the salad came, its simplicity captivated me. The thin slices of fennel glistened with olive oil and lemon juice. They were beautifully arranged. With my first bite, I understood why the waiter had been so excited. The flavors were bright, fresh, and just right. It changed how I view fennel forever.
Absolutely! Fennel salad is not just tasty but very nutritious. Fennel bulbs are full of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. This makes it a smart choice for those wanting to enjoy good flavors while eating healthily.
If you are mindful of calories, you will love that fennel is low in calories but high in crunch. This salad is filling without being heavy. For vegan diets, it is easy to adapt. Just leave out the Parmesan cheese or switch it for nutritional yeast or toasted pine nuts for a savory touch.
The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. You can customize it to match your tastes or needs. For example, I sometimes add sliced oranges or grapefruit for a citrusy kick. When I want a heartier salad, I include peppery arugula and toasted walnuts.
The fennel bulb is the star here. Look for firm bulbs that are white and without brown spots. The lemon adds a zesty flavor that pairs well with fennel. It’s best to use fresh lemon juice; it makes a big difference compared to bottled juice.
A good Parmesan cheese, shaved into thin flakes, gives a salty depth that balances the fennel’s sweetness. When adding olive oil, choose good extra-virgin olive oil. Its fruity notes enhance the salad’s flavors.
I enjoy adding fennel fronds just before serving. They provide a burst of color and an aromatic touch that enhances the dish.
Making this fennel salad at home always brings back that magical night in Rome. It means more than a salad—it represents the joy of trying new flavors and using simple, quality ingredients. Whether for a dinner party or a light lunch, this fennel salad is sure to impress with its elegant beauty and wonderful taste.
To make the Fennel Salad, you will need the following ingredients:
Cut the stalks off the fennel, saving the fronds. Using a mandolin, shave the fennel and ½ onion. Alternatively, slice them finely.
Put the shaved fennel and onion into a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 ½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss to combine.
Arrange the salad on a plate in a "carpaccio" style. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and top with the reserved fennel fronds.
Serve right away. Enjoy!
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Fennel Salad, a dish that transports you to the heart of Italy. With crisp fennel, zesty citrus, and a touch of Parmesan, the salad perfectly balances freshness and sophistication. The addition of thinly sliced red onion brings a delightful crunch and mild sweetness, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. Whether for a quiet dinner or a gathering with friends, this elegant recipe will elevate your meal. Did you make it? We'd love to see! Tag us on social with @CookMeRecipes and use the hashtag #cookmerecipes.
Cette salade de fenouil me rappelle mes vacances à Rome. Le mélange de saveurs est magnifique. J'ai ajouté quelques oranges, et c'était délicieux. Un vrai régal pour ma petite famille.
It's an elegant side dish perfect for any meal
