When the seasons shift and citrus is at its juiciest, there’s nothing quite like a Citrus and Fennel Salad to brighten your plate. This dish combines sweet, tangy citrus fruits with the crunch and mild licorice flavor of fresh fennel, creating a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s refreshing, colorful, and packed with nutrients—perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner starter.
🥗 Why You’ll Love Citrus and Fennel Salad
- Seasonal & Fresh – Winter and early spring bring the best citrus fruits, and fennel is at its peak too.
- Light yet Satisfying – It’s healthy, hydrating, and doesn’t weigh you down.
- Beautiful Presentation – It looks like sunshine on a plate, with vibrant orange, ruby red, and green hues.
- No Cooking Required – It’s simple to prepare with just a few ingredients and a quick assembly.
🍋 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy salad:
- 2 large navel oranges, peeled and sliced
- 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
- 1 blood orange or other citrus for color variety
- 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced (save some fronds for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh mint leaves or microgreens (optional)
🥄 Directions
- Prepare the citrus – Slice off the peel and pith, then cut into rounds or segments.
- Slice the fennel – Use a sharp knife or mandoline to get thin slices.
- Arrange on a plate – Layer citrus slices and fennel. Mix colors and shapes for a beautiful look.
- Drizzle the dressing – Whisk olive oil, a touch of honey, salt, and pepper. Pour it gently over the salad.
- Garnish – Add fennel fronds, mint leaves, or microgreens for extra color and flavor.
Serve immediately, or chill briefly for a refreshing crunch.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Citrus and Fennel Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead and assemble just before serving. Add the dressing last to keep everything crisp.
What other fruits work in this salad?
Try mandarins, tangerines, or pomelos. Mixing citrus varieties adds color and complexity.
Is fennel too strong in flavor?
When sliced thin, fennel has a light, sweet taste that pairs beautifully with citrus. You can soak slices in cold water for 10 minutes to make it extra mild and crisp.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely! This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
What’s a good vegan option for the dressing?
Use maple syrup instead of honey, or skip sweeteners altogether. The citrus brings enough natural sweetness.
✅ Conclusion
This Citrus and Fennel Salad is the ultimate way to celebrate seasonal produce with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s crisp, juicy, and makes a stunning addition to any table. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it solo, it’s a beautiful reminder that simple ingredients can shine when paired thoughtfully.
💡Save this recipe and bring sunshine to your next meal—your taste buds will thank you!
