Sicilian Orange & Fennel Salad
This vibrant Sicilian Orange & Fennel Salad is a refreshing and elegant dish, combining the sweet juiciness of oranges with the crisp, aromatic bite of fennel and the briny depth of olives, all brought together by a simple, zesty vinaigrette.
For 2 servings
Prepare the oranges: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top and bottom of each orange. Stand the orange on one end and slice downwards, following the curve of the fruit, to remove all the peel and white pith. Working over a bowl to catch juices, carefully slice between the membranes to release individual segments (supremes). Alternatively, slice the peeled oranges into thin rounds. Set aside.
Prepare the fennel: Trim the fronds from the fennel bulb (reserve some for garnish if desired). Halve the bulb lengthwise and remove the tough core. Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, slice the fennel bulb crosswise into paper-thin half-moons.
Prepare the red onion: Peel and very thinly slice the red onion into rings or half-moons.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the salad: On a large platter or individual plates, artfully arrange the orange segments (or slices), thinly sliced fennel, and red onion. Scatter the pitted and halved olives over the top.
Dress and serve: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad. If using, sprinkle with fresh mint or parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To achieve paper-thin fennel slices, a mandoline slicer is highly recommended. If using a knife, ensure it is very sharp and slice slowly and carefully.
- 2For perfectly segmented oranges (supremes), work over a bowl to catch all the delicious juice, which can be added to the dressing or enjoyed separately.
- 3Chill the sliced fennel in ice water for 10-15 minutes before assembling the salad; this will make it extra crisp and refreshing.
- 4Adjust the dressing to your taste: add a pinch of sugar or a touch more vinegar if you prefer a sweeter or tangier profile.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nutty Crunch
Add 1/4 cup toasted pistachios or slivered almonds for an added layer of crunch and nutty flavor.
Creamy & SaltyCreamy & Salty
Crumble 1/4 cup of feta cheese or fresh goat cheese over the salad for a creamy, tangy, and salty counterpoint.
Citrus MedleyCitrus Medley
Experiment with a mix of citrus fruits, such as blood oranges, grapefruits, or mandarins, for varied color and flavor profiles.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Oranges are an excellent source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
High in Fiber
Both oranges and fennel contribute dietary fiber, aiding in digestion, promoting satiety, and supporting gut health.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
This salad is packed with antioxidants from oranges, olives, and fennel, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
While best served immediately for optimal crispness, you can prepare the oranges, fennel, and dressing separately up to a few hours in advance. Combine and dress just before serving to prevent the fennel from softening.
