Description
Ina Garten’s fennel orange salad combines crisp shaved fennel with sweet citrus segments in a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dish. Dressed with olive oil, fresh herbs, and a delicate balance of flavors, you’ll enjoy this refreshing salad that whispers of sunshine and simple elegance.
Ingredients
Scale
Fennel:
- 2 pounds (907 grams) fennel bulbs
Citrus Fruits:
- 3 to 4 oranges
- 2 lemons, juiced
Seasonings and Oil:
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) good olive oil
- Kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 ounces (57 grams) arugula
Instructions
- Meticulously trim the fennel bulbs by removing stalks and core. Slice bulbs into delicate, translucent strips using a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform thickness.
- Carefully peel oranges, ensuring no white pith remains. Cut into elegant, thin semi-circular slices that showcase the fruit’s vibrant color and juicy texture.
- Create a harmonious vinaigrette by whisking extra virgin olive oil (59 milliliters or 2 fluid ounces), fresh lemon juice, cracked black pepper, and kosher salt in a small mixing bowl until ingredients seamlessly integrate.
- Transfer sliced fennel, orange segments, and peppery arugula into a spacious serving bowl. Gently cascade the prepared vinaigrette over the ingredients, using light folding motions to ensure even distribution without bruising delicate leaves.
- Enhance the salad’s visual appeal by scattering reserved fennel fronds across the surface. Optionally, sprinkle an additional pinch of kosher salt to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Serve immediately to preserve the salad’s crisp texture and vibrant citrus notes, ensuring maximum gustatory pleasure for diners.
Notes
- Slice fennel paper-thin using a mandoline or sharp knife for the most delicate, crisp texture.
- Select bright, firm oranges that promise juicy sweetness and vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
- Fresh arugula brings a bold, peppery kick that perfectly balances the salad’s delicate ingredients.
- Kosher salt acts as a flavor enhancer, drawing out the natural brightness of citrus and fennel.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil gently to create a silky dressing that subtly unites all components.
- Finish with delicate fennel fronds that add an elegant herbal whisper to the final presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg