Name: Revitalize Your Plate with Fennel and Citrus Salad Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 bulbs Fennel (Offers a crisp texture and mild anise flavor; slice paper-thin.); 1 head Radicchio (Adds slightly bitter complexity.); 1 medium Orange (Segment for a delightful burst.); 1 medium Pink Grapefruit (Segment or slice for visual appeal.); to taste Fresh Cracked Black Pepper (Elevates flavor.); 1/2 cup Olive Oil (Serves as the dressing base.); 2 tablespoons Champagne Vinegar (Adds tangy depth.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (Essential for flavor harmony.); 1 tablespoon Honey Dijon Mustard (Contributes sweetness.); 1/4 cup Fennel Fronds (Brings subtle anise flavor.); to taste Salt (Balances flavors.)

As I sliced through the crisp fennel, the aromatic scent of its anise notes wrapped around me, evoking memories of Mediterranean markets bustling with vibrant colors. This Fennel and Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette is my go-to dish for sunny days or when I crave something fresh and light. In just 15 minutes, you can create a nutritious salad that highlights the wonderful balance of crunchy fennel, sweet citrus, and bitter radicchio. It’s not just a quick prep but also a low-calorie wonder, perfect for rejuvenating our palates away from mundane meals. Imagine serving this at your next gathering or simply savoring it as a refreshing lunch. Could there be a more delightful way to brighten your table? Ready to dive into this vibrant recipe?

Why not add a fresh twist today?

Fresh and Light: This Fennel and Citrus Salad introduces invigorating flavors that elevate any meal. Nutritious Delight: At only 175 calories per serving, it’s packed with vitamins C and A, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you have a stunning dish ready to serve. Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy it as a light main dish with chickpeas for added protein. Mediterranean Inspiration: The vibrant combination of these ingredients creates a refreshing departure from typical fast food. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this salad is sure to impress!

Fennel and Citrus Salad Ingredients

• Elevate your meal with these fresh ingredients!

For the Salad

Fennel Bulbs – Offers a crisp texture and mild anise flavor; slice paper-thin for an exquisite crunch.
Radicchio – Adds a slightly bitter complexity; perfect to enhance the overall taste profile.
Orange – Provides sweetness and vibrant color; segment for a delightful burst in every bite.
Pink Grapefruit – Introduces a tart contrast that brightens the dish; segment or slice for visual appeal.
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper – Elevates flavor; adjust to your preferred spice level.

For the Fennel Vinaigrette

Olive Oil – Serves as the dressing base, providing a rich texture.
Champagne Vinegar – Adds a tangy depth to the vinaigrette; can substitute with mild white vinegar if needed.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the dressing and balances acidity; essential for flavor harmony.
Honey Dijon Mustard – Contributes a touch of sweetness and creaminess; substitute with regular Dijon if desired.
Fennel Fronds – Brings subtle anise flavor to the dressing without overpowering; enhances aesthetics and taste.
Salt – Balances flavors; add to taste for perfect seasoning.

Now, let’s dive into creating this delightful Fennel and Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette that’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fennel and Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette

Step 1: Trim and Slice Fennel
Begin by trimming the fennel bulbs: cut off the tough stalks and remove any discolored outer leaves. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, slice the fennel paper-thin to maximize the crisp texture. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even flavor throughout your Fennel and Citrus Salad.

Step 2: Soak Fennel to Prevent Browning
If the sliced fennel starts to brown, prepare a quick soaking solution by mixing cold water with a splash of lemon juice in a bowl. Submerge the fennel slices for about 5 minutes, allowing them to remain bright and crisp. Drain and pat dry to enhance their refreshing quality in the salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Radicchio
Cut the radicchio in half and remove the core before shredding or thinly slicing it. Aim for bite-sized pieces that will integrate seamlessly with the other ingredients. The vibrant color will add visual appeal to your Fennel and Citrus Salad, creating a beautiful contrast against the white fennel.

Step 4: Segment the Citrus
Next, carefully segment the orange and pink grapefruit by slicing off the ends and removing the peels. Use a sharp knife to cut between the membranes and release the juicy segments. Alternatively, you can slice them into rounds for a rustic look. These citrus additions bring sweetness and acidity to balance the salad beautifully.

Step 5: Arrange Salad Ingredients
On a large serving plate, artistically arrange the radicchio, fennel slices, and citrus segments. Layering them creates an inviting presentation, showcasing the vibrant colors and textures of the Fennel and Citrus Salad. Allowing the ingredients to shine will excite your guests and enhance their dining experience.

Step 6: Make the Fennel Vinaigrette
In a jar, combine olive oil, champagne vinegar, fresh lemon juice, honey Dijon mustard, and salt. Add the reserved fennel fronds as well. Seal the jar and shake vigorously until the vinaigrette is well-blended and creamy, approximately 30 seconds. This dressing will coat the salad beautifully, enhancing the overall flavors.

Step 7: Dress the Salad and Serve
Drizzle the creamy fennel vinaigrette generously over the arranged salad, ensuring an even distribution across all components. Finish by sprinkling fresh cracked black pepper and any remaining fennel fronds on top for an extra touch. Your stunning Fennel and Citrus Salad is now ready to be served as a delightful side or light main dish.

Storage Tips for Fennel and Citrus Salad

Fridge: Store the assembled salad without dressing in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 days. The vibrant flavors of your Fennel and Citrus Salad will remain intact.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this salad as the texture of the fresh ingredients may suffer. Enjoy it fresh instead!

Dressing Storage: If you have leftover fennel vinaigrette, keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using to re-emulsify.

Reheating: No reheating is needed since this salad is served cold, making it an easy addition to any meal prep. Enjoy it straight from the fridge for a quick, refreshing treat!

Fennel and Citrus Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with your dish and make this vibrant salad your own!

Nutty Crunch: Add toasted walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch that enhances texture and flavor. Try mixing in different nuts for a unique twist.
Leafy Greens: Substitute radicchio with peppery arugula or baby spinach to switch up the flavor profile. Each provides a delightful freshness that complements the fennel.
Citrus Swap: Experiment with seasonal citrus fruits like blood oranges or lemons for varied sweetness and acidity. This change can take your salad to a whole new level.
Cheesy Addition: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can be tossed in for creaminess, adding another layer of flavor to your Fennel and Citrus Salad. Pair it with some fresh herbs for an aromatic boost!
Herbaceous Flair: Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or parsley will elevate the dish with aromatic freshness, beautifully harmonizing with the salad’s existing flavors.
Spicy Kick: For a touch of heat, incorporate thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This adds an exciting contrast to the sweetness of the citrus.
Vinaigrette Alternatives: Try using balsamic vinegar instead of champagne vinegar for a richer note, or even a splash of pomegranate molasses for sweetness and tang. Adjust as needed for your desired taste!

For a delicious pairing, consider serving the Fennel and Citrus Salad alongside an Apple Arugula Salad or a light Peach Watermelon Salad to create a refreshing meal bursting with flavors!

Expert Tips for Fennel and Citrus Salad

Thin Slices: Use a mandoline for perfectly thin slices of fennel, enhancing its crisp texture, which is essential for the Fennel and Citrus Salad.

Fresh Fennel: Choose bright, firm fennel bulbs with no browning to ensure optimal flavor and freshness in your salad.

Prevent Browning: Soak sliced fennel in cold water mixed with lemon juice if it starts to brown; this keeps it looking fresh and appealing.

Vinaigrette Ahead: Make the fennel vinaigrette in advance for the best flavor; it can be stored in the fridge for a few days before use.

Visual Contrast: When arranging, layer each ingredient artfully on the plate to create a stunning visual that will impress your guests.

Citrus Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different citrus fruits such as blood oranges or lemons to elevate the flavors of your Fennel and Citrus Salad.

What to Serve with Fennel and Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that harmonize wonderfully with this refreshing salad.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken provides a savory contrast, making for a hearty yet healthy meal. The light and zesty flavors of the chicken beautifully complement the citrus notes in the salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf with fresh herbs adds a wholesome, fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the crisp fennel. This option is nutritious and satisfying, giving your plate a Mediterranean flair.
Roasted Shrimp: Tender, smoky-roasted shrimp brings a delicious seafood element to the table. Their slight sweetness enhances the salad’s flavors, creating a delightful balance of tastes and textures.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mix of grains and spices offer a vibrant side that aligns perfectly with the invigorating salad. They bring a wholesome heartiness, making the meal feel complete and fulfilling.
Pita Bread and Hummus: Serve warm, fluffy pita bread with a side of smooth hummus for a delightful Mediterranean starter. This duo adds a comforting element that invites sharing and conversation.
Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of sparkling lemonade adds a refreshing, bright touch that refreshes the palate and echoes the citrusy notes of the salad. Its effervescence makes any meal feel festive and vibrant.
Lemon Sorbet: To wrap up your meal, treat yourself to a light and tangy lemon sorbet. It’s a refreshing end that leaves you feeling rejuvenated and satisfied, perfectly closing the circle of flavors introduced by the salad.

Make Ahead Options

These Fennel and Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the fennel and radicchio up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crisp texture. For the citrus fruits, segment or slice them, but do this only a few hours before serving to keep them fresh and juicy. Additionally, prepare the creamy fennel vinaigrette ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just give it a good shake before drizzling over the salad. When ready to serve, simply toss the prepped ingredients with the dressing for a vibrant and refreshing meal that is just as delicious as when freshly made!

Fennel and Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe fennel bulbs?
Absolutely! Look for fennel bulbs that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a bright white or light green color. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of browning, as these may be past their prime. Fresh fennel bulbs should smell aromatic and slightly sweet, a lovely hint of anise.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Fennel and Citrus Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container without dressing in the refrigerator. It will stay delightful for up to 2 days. If you’re worried about the ingredients wilting, it’s best to keep the vinaigrette separate until serving time.

Can I freeze fennel salad?
I recommend avoiding freezing this salad, as the fresh ingredients can lose their crisp texture. The vibrant flavors come from the freshness of the components, and freezing can lead to a soggy salad upon thawing. Enjoy your Fennel and Citrus Salad fresh for the best experience!

What if my fennel slices begin to brown?
Very! If you notice your fennel slices browning, don’t worry. Simply soak them in a bowl of cold water mixed with lemon juice for about 5 minutes before you prepare your salad. This will help maintain their bright appearance and crispness. After soaking, drain and pat dry to ensure they don’t release excess water onto your salad.

Are there any dietary considerations with this salad?
Absolutely! This Fennel and Citrus Salad is gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. If you have allergies to any ingredients, such as mustard in the vinaigrette, feel free to substitute it with a known alternative or omit it entirely. The salad is versatile, so tailor it to your dietary needs while maintaining the wonderful flavors!

How long can I store homemade vinaigrette?
Homemade fennel vinaigrette can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, give it a good shake to re-emulsify the ingredients. If you find your vinaigrette has thickened, add a splash of water or extra lemon juice to bring it back to your desired consistency!