Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Winter Citrus Salad with Fennel Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 90 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Vegan

Description

Bright, refreshing, and full of seasonal flavor, this Winter Citrus Salad with Fennel offers a delightful contrast of sweet, juicy citrus and crisp, aromatic fennel. Enhanced with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, this vibrant salad is perfect as a light and healthy winter side dish or holiday accompaniment.


Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 oranges (blood oranges or navel), peeled and sliced
  • 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced (optional, for variety)
  • 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced

Dressing

  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, to balance tartness)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice or white wine vinegar
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins & Garnish

  • Fennel fronds for garnish
  • Sliced avocado
  • Toasted pistachios or almonds
  • Fresh mint or basil


Instructions

  1. Prepare the citrus and fennel: Peel and thinly slice the oranges and grapefruit (if using). Thinly slice the fennel bulb, removing any tough core for a tender bite. Arrange the citrus slices and fennel beautifully on a serving platter or shallow bowl to create an appealing base for the salad.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, honey or maple syrup (if using), and fresh lemon juice or white wine vinegar. This mixture will balance the citrus’s natural tartness with a subtle sweetness and richness.
  3. Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the arranged citrus and fennel. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, gently tossing or letting the flavors meld while keeping the presentation intact.
  4. Garnish and serve: Garnish the salad with fennel fronds or fresh herbs like mint or basil. For added texture and heartiness, sprinkle toasted pistachios or almonds, or add slices of avocado just before serving. Serve chilled for a refreshing winter side dish.

Notes

  • To reduce any bitterness, make sure to remove all remaining white pith from the citrus before slicing.
  • Add nuts or avocado for more substance and a satisfying texture contrast.
  • This salad is delicious served chilled alongside fish, chicken, or as part of a festive holiday meal.
  • For convenience, prep the citrus and fennel separately in advance and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and vibrant flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, American