Shaved Fennel Salad
User Reviews
5
Shaved Fennel Salad
Description
Shaved Fennel Salad combines thin slices of fennel bulb and fronds with a dressing of extra-virgin olive oil, lemon zest and juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The salad is then gently tossed with shaved Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts (or sliced almonds), and chopped fresh parsley. The combination creates a bright, crisp salad where the anise-like crunch of fennel meets nutty cheese and nuts, balanced by a bright citrus dressing and the subtle sweetness of honey.
The texture is crisp and refreshing, ideal for light summer lunches or as a side dish that contrasts richer mains. The lemon dressing enhances the fennel's natural flavor without overpowering it. The toasted pine nuts provide a crunchy contrast to the tender, thinly sliced fennel, while Parmesan adds a savory depth.
This salad can be served as a starter or on the side of grilled meat or fish. It's a straightforward preparation needing no cooking, relying on fresh, high quality ingredients and careful slicing to highlight the unique crispness and slight sweetness of fennel.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- lemon zest of 1
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt sea salt
- black pepper freshly ground
- 2 fennel bulb thinly sliced on a mandoline, plus 2 tablespoons chopped fronds, medium
- ⅓ cup Parmesan Cheese shaved, or pecorino cheese
- ⅓ cup pine nuts toasted, or sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons parsley chopped, fresh
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, mustard, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Add the fennel and toss to coat.
- Add the fennel fronds, cheese, pine nuts, and parsley and gently toss. Season to taste and serve.