Summer is here, and it’s time to get creative with refreshing salads that feature the star of the season: fennel! This crunchy, anise-flavored vegetable is a natural fit for warm-weather eats. And we’re excited to share our favorite fennel salad recipes with you – 18 of them, to be exact! From classic pairings like citrus and parmesan to bold combos like roasted fennel and arugula, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and zesty side dish or a satisfying main course, these fennel salads are sure to hit the spot.
Citrus Fennel Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad, featuring the sweetness of citrus and the crunch of fennel.
Ingredients:
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp Orange Vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fennel, orange segments, and red onion.
2. Sprinkle mint leaves over the top and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle with Orange Vinaigrette and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Orange Vinaigrette:
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl, whisking until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep time) + serving time
Shaved Fennel Salad with Parmesan and Lemon
A refreshing and light salad that celebrates the sweetness of fennel, paired with the tanginess of lemon and the nutty flavor of Parmesan. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bulbs of fennel
– 1/4 cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Thinly shave the fennel bulbs using a mandoline or sharp knife.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shaved fennel, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Apple Salad with Walnuts
This refreshing salad combines the crunchy sweetness of apples and fennel with the earthy flavor of walnuts, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. With its simplicity and versatility, it’s an excellent option to add some excitement to your meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel and diced apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the fennel and apple mixture; toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Fennel Salad with Arugula and Balsamic
Roasted Fennel Salad with Arugula and Balsamic
This sweet and savory salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted fennel with the peppery flavor of arugula, all tied together with a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 large fennel bulbs, sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss fennel slices with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula leaves and roasted fennel.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze (mix 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey) over the salad.
6. Top with crumbled goat cheese if using. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fennel and Radish Salad with Mint
This vibrant salad combines the crunch of fennel and radishes with the brightness of fresh mint, creating a perfect side dish for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 bunch of radishes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fennel and radish slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the fennel and radish mixture, tossing to coat.
4. Stir in the chopped mint leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Cucumber Salad with Dill
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of fennel, the coolness of cucumber, and the brightness of fresh dill. Perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fennel and cucumber slices.
2. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the top of the vegetables.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar (if using) over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Grilled Fennel Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing summer salad combines the anise flavor of grilled fennel with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large fennel bulbs, sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush fennel slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add grilled fennel and cherry tomatoes to the bowl; toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fennel and Pear Salad with Blue Cheese
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pears, the crunch of fennel, and the tanginess of blue cheese for a delightful summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 anise-flavored bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced fennel and diced pear.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the fennel and pear mixture, and toss to combine.
4. Crumble blue cheese over the top of the salad and toss gently.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Avocado Salad with Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the anise flavor of fennel with the creamy texture of avocado, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel and diced avocado.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the fennel and avocado mixture, and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Quinoa Salad with Herbs
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of fennel, the nutty flavor of quinoa, and a hint of fresh herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 bulbs fennel, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, fennel, and parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Garnish with additional parsley and dill, if using.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
This salad is best served immediately, but it can be prepared up to 30 minutes in advance. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Fennel and Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of beets, the crunch of fennel, and the tanginess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and dice into small cubes.
4. In a large bowl, combine fennel, goat cheese, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
5. Toss to combine, then add roasted beets and toss gently.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Fennel and Carrot Salad with Tahini Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of fennel and carrots with the creamy richness of tahini dressing, perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced fennel and grated carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the fennel-carrot mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Grapefruit Salad with Honey Glaze
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and tangy salad that combines the crunch of fennel, the sweetness of grapefruit, and a drizzle of honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel and grapefruit segments.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the honey glaze over the fennel and grapefruit mixture, tossing to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Pomegranate Salad with Pistachios
This refreshing salad combines the anise flavor of fennel, the sweetness of pomegranate, and the crunch of pistachios for a delicious and healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced fennel, pomegranate seeds, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the fennel mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Chickpea Salad with Cumin
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of fennel with the creaminess of chickpeas, all tied together with a hint of warm cumin. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel and chickpeas.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and cumin.
3. Pour the dressing over the fennel and chickpeas, and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Zucchini Salad with Lemon Zest
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of zucchini and the crunch of fennel, elevated by a burst of citrusy flavor from lemon zest. Perfect for a light and healthy side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon zest (from 1 lemon), grated
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine zucchini and fennel slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Kale Salad with Almonds
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the crunchy sweetness of fennel, the earthy flavor of kale, and the nutty taste of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 4 cups of curly kale, stems removed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup of sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the kale with your hands until it becomes tender and slightly wilted.
2. Add the sliced fennel to the bowl and toss to combine.
3. Sprinkle the almonds over the top and drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fennel and Watermelon Salad with Feta
Refreshing Fennel and Watermelon Salad with Feta: A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
– 4 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced fennel and diced watermelon.
2. Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for a warm summer day. The anise flavor of the fennel pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon, while the crumbled feta adds a tangy touch. Enjoy!
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing fennel salad recipes! From classic combinations like citrus, parmesan, and lemon to more unique pairings featuring apples, radishes, and pomegranates, there’s something for everyone. Try roasting fennel for a sweet and earthy twist or adding crunchy quinoa for added texture. Each of the 18 recipes showcases the anise-flavored bulb in a new and exciting way. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a quick snack, or a refreshing side dish, these fennel salads are sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you cool all summer long.
