Introduction

The shaved fennel and arugula salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a refreshing addition to any meal. This vibrant salad features the unique anise flavor of fennel, paired with the peppery notes of arugula, and is balanced with a light lemon dressing. It is perfect as a side dish or a light lunch option.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Fennel – 1 bulb, thinly sliced
Arugula – 4 cups, packed
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, shaved (optional)
Walnuts – ¼ cup, chopped (optional)

Prep Time

The preparation time for this salad is approximately 15 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

There is no cook time needed for this salad, making the total time around 15 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Fennel

Remove the fronds from the fennel bulb and set them aside for garnish. Cut the fennel bulb in half lengthwise, then slice it very thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife.

Prepare the Arugula

Rinse the arugula leaves in cold water and spin them dry using a salad spinner. Make sure they are well dried to prevent the dressing from being diluted.

Combine the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel and arugula. Toss them together gently to mix without bruising the arugula.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste if necessary.

Add the Dressing

Drizzle the dressing over the fennel and arugula mixture, tossing gently to ensure all the leaves are coated evenly.

Serve the Salad

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish it with the reserved fennel fronds for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

Choosing Fennel

Select fennel bulbs that are firm and heavy for their size with bright green fronds. Avoid bulbs that are soft or have brown spots.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs well with grilled fish or chicken, making it a great side dish for a summer meal.

Storage

This salad is best served immediately, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The arugula may wilt if dressed too long in advance.

Cook techniques

Shaving Vegetables

To achieve thin slices of fennel, use a mandoline or a sharp knife. Shaving the fennel enhances its texture and allows it to marinate well with the dressing.

Mixing Greens

To combine arugula with shaved fennel effectively, gently toss the ingredients in a large bowl. This helps in evenly distributing the flavors without damaging the greens.

Preparing a Simple Dressing

Mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a basic yet flavorful dressing. Adjust the ratios to taste and drizzle it over the salad just before serving.

Marinating Flavors

Allow the shaved fennel to sit in the dressing for a short period before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes the fennel more tender.

Using Fresh Ingredients

Always opt for fresh arugula and fennel for the best flavor and texture. Fresh greens provide a vibrant taste and crispness to the salad.

FAQ

Can I substitute arugula with another green?

Yes, you can use other greens such as spinach or mixed salad greens if arugula is not available.

How long can I store the salad?

It is best to serve the salad immediately after preparation. If stored, the greens may wilt due to the dressing.

Can I add other ingredients to the salad?

Absolutely! You can incorporate ingredients like citrus segments, nuts, or cheese for added flavor and texture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

While the components can be prepped in advance, it’s recommended to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.

What’s the best way to slice fennel?

Using a mandoline slicer allows for even, thin slices, but a sharp knife will also work if you’re careful with your cuts.

Conclusion

This shaved fennel and arugula salad offers a delightful combination of crisp textures and fresh flavors. The light dressing enhances the natural taste of the vegetables, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Its simplicity and elegance make it a must-try for those seeking a refreshing dish.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Fennel and Citrus Salad

Combine shaved fennel with orange and grapefruit segments for a bright, zesty salad. Drizzle with a honey-lemon dressing to complement the flavors.

Arugula and Beet Salad

Mix arugula with roasted beets, goat cheese, and walnuts. A balsamic vinaigrette adds a rich flavor that balances the earthiness of the beets.

Shaved Vegetable Salad

Use a mix of shaved vegetables such as radishes, carrots, and zucchini along with fennel for a colorful and crunchy salad. A citrus vinaigrette ties it all together.

Fennel and Apple Slaw

Create a slaw by combining shaved fennel with thinly sliced apples and cabbage. Toss it in a light apple cider vinaigrette for a sweet and tangy side dish.

Quinoa and Arugula Salad

Add cooked quinoa to arugula, along with cherry tomatoes and avocado. A lemon-olive oil dressing gives it a fresh taste while boosting its nutritional value.