Shaved Fennel & Rocket Salad Recipe
Introduction
This shaved fennel and rocket salad is a bright, crisp dish that combines the subtle anise flavor of fennel with the peppery bite of rocket. It’s quick to prepare and makes a refreshing side or light lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 fennel bulb
- 1⁄2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
- 1⁄2 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 50g rocket
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove the fronds from the fennel bulb and set them aside. Cut away any tough stalks.
- Step 2: Thinly slice the fennel bulb using a sharp knife or a mandoline.
- Step 3: Place the fennel slices in a bowl. Add a large pinch of salt, the fennel seeds if using, and the lemon juice.
- Step 4: Using your hands, scrunch the fennel slices to help infuse the flavors. Cover the bowl and let it stand at room temperature for at least 10 minutes, or refrigerate for up to a few hours.
- Step 5: Before serving, drizzle the fennel with olive oil. Toss through the rocket and reserved fennel fronds.
- Step 6: Serve directly from the bowl or pile onto plates and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving.
- If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, use less juice or substitute with white wine vinegar.
- The fennel seeds are optional but add a nice depth; lightly toast them to enhance their aroma.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The fennel may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If chilled, bring to room temperature before serving and drizzle with extra olive oil if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the fennel slices and let them infuse with lemon juice and salt for a few hours to enhance the flavors. However, add the rocket just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Can I substitute the rocket with other greens?
Absolutely. Baby spinach, watercress, or arugula are great substitutes that provide a similar peppery note and texture to the salad.
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Shaved Fennel & Rocket Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes to 3 hours (including resting time)
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and refreshing shaved fennel and rocket salad featuring thinly sliced fennel bulb marinated in lemon juice and fennel seeds, tossed with peppery rocket leaves and dressed with olive oil. Perfect as a crisp side dish or a palate-cleansing starter.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 fennel bulb
- 1/2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 50g rocket
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prep the Fennel: Remove the fronds from the fennel bulb and set them aside for later. Trim and discard any tough stalks to ensure tender slices.
- Slice the Bulb: Using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice the fennel bulb into delicate shavings and place them in a bowl.
- Marinate the Fennel: Sprinkle a large pinch of salt and the fennel seeds (if using) over the sliced fennel. Add the juice of half a lemon, then use your hands to scrunch and mix the ingredients thoroughly to release flavors.
- Rest the Salad: Cover the bowl and allow the fennel to marinate at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. For more intense flavor, chill in the refrigerator for up to a few hours.
- Assemble the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the marinated fennel with olive oil, then toss in the rocket leaves and reserved fennel fronds to combine evenly.
- Serve: Serve the salad directly from the bowl or arrange it artistically on plates for a fresh, crunchy appetizer or side.
Notes
- Using a mandoline ensures uniform thin slices for the fennel, enhancing texture.
- Allowing the fennel to marinate softens its flavor and adds brightness from the lemon juice.
- Fennel seeds add an extra layer of anise flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Serve immediately after tossing with rocket to maintain leaf crispness.
- Optional addition: sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper or shaved Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: shaved fennel salad, rocket salad, fresh fennel recipe, Mediterranean salad, no-cook salad, healthy side dish
