Salads can be a canvas for a variety of flavors and textures, and the Shaved Apple Fennel Salad exemplifies this beautifully. With its crisp apples and delicate fennel, this salad is a refreshing and light dish that’s perfect for any season. The crunch of the fennel, combined with the sweetness of the apples, creates a harmonious blend that is elevated by a tangy dressing. Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also visually stunning, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or simply brightening up your weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is both simple and sophisticated.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 medium-sized apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), cored and thinly shaved (you can use a mandoline for even slices)
- 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly shaved (fronds reserved for garnish)
- ½ cup arugula or mixed greens
- ¼ cup walnuts or pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fennel and Apples
- Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to shave the fennel bulb and apples into thin slices. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even flavor and texture.
- Place the shaved fennel and apples in a large bowl.
2. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients
- Drizzle the dressing over the shaved fennel and apples. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated.
- Add the arugula or mixed greens to the bowl and toss gently once more.
4. Add Toppings
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Sprinkle the toasted nuts over the top, along with the crumbled cheese if using.
- Garnish with reserved fennel fronds for a touch of color and extra flavor.
Conclusion
The Shaved Apple Fennel Salad is a delightful combination of flavors that will surprise and please your palate. The crisp apples add a natural sweetness, while the fennel brings a subtle anise flavor that balances the dish beautifully. Toasted nuts provide a satisfying crunch, and the dressing ties everything together with its tangy notes. This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal or a standalone dish for a light lunch. Whether you serve it alongside a hearty main course or enjoy it as a standalone dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures in every bite!
