Shaved Fennel & Rocket Salad Recipe

Introduction

This shaved fennel and rocket salad is a refreshing, crisp side dish that balances peppery greens with the subtle anise flavor of fennel. Lightly pickling the fennel slices with lemon juice and salt brings out a bright, tangy twist perfect for warm days or as a palate cleanser.

Ingredients

• 1 fennel bulb
• 1⁄2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
• 1⁄2 lemon, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 50g rocket

Instructions

1. Step 1: Remove the fronds from the fennel bulb and set them aside. Cut away any tough stalks, then thinly slice the fennel bulb using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices.
2. Step 2: Place the fennel slices into a bowl. Add a large pinch of salt, the fennel seeds if using, and the lemon juice. Using your hands, scrunch everything together to evenly coat the fennel.
3. Step 3: Cover the bowl and let the fennel stand at room temperature for at least 10 minutes, or chill it for up to a few hours to allow the flavors to develop.
4. Step 4: Before serving, drizzle the olive oil over the pickled fennel. Toss gently with the rocket leaves and the reserved fennel fronds.
5. Step 5: Serve the salad directly from the bowl or arrange it on plates for a fresh, vibrant starter or side dish.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding some thinly sliced red onion or shaved Parmesan for extra flavor and texture.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, leave out the fennel seeds or reduce the lemon juice slightly.
• Use arugula instead of rocket if it’s more readily available in your area.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The fennel may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, bring to room temperature before serving and toss with fresh rocket and olive oil to refresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fennel slices and let them marinate for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Add the rocket and olive oil just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

What can I substitute for rocket?

Arugula, watercress, or baby spinach are great alternatives that provide a similar peppery or leafy flavor to complement the fennel.

Shaved Fennel & Rocket Salad Recipe

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5 from 311 reviews

A refreshing and crisp shaved fennel and rocket salad featuring thinly sliced fennel bulbs tossed with lemon juice, fennel seeds, and olive oil, balanced by peppery rocket leaves. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy starter.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus optional chilling time up to a few hours)
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 1 fennel bulb
• 1⁄2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
• 1⁄2 lemon, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 50g rocket
• Large pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the fennel: Remove the fronds from the fennel bulb and set them aside for later use. Cut away any tough stalks attached to the bulb to ensure tender slices.
2. Slice the fennel bulb: Using a sharp knife or preferably a mandoline, thinly slice the fennel bulb to create delicate, crisp shards that will absorb the dressing flavors well.
3. Pickle the fennel: Place the sliced fennel into a bowl. Add a large pinch of salt, optional fennel seeds, and the juice of half a lemon. Using your hands, gently scrunch and toss the mixture to evenly coat the fennel slices. Cover and allow it to stand at room temperature for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld, or chill for up to a few hours for a more developed tang.
4. Finish the salad: Before serving, drizzle the pickled fennel with olive oil, then toss in the reserved fennel fronds and fresh rocket leaves. Gently mix to combine all ingredients and distribute the flavors evenly.
5. Serve: Serve the salad directly from the bowl or neatly pile it onto individual plates for an elegant presentation.

Notes

• Using a mandoline helps achieve uniformly thin slices, enhancing the texture of the salad.
• The fennel seeds are optional but add a lovely complementary flavor.
• Allowing the fennel to pickle for longer enhances the depth of flavor and softens the slices slightly.
• This salad is best served fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance and kept chilled.
• Adjust the seasoning with extra lemon juice or salt to taste before serving if desired.

Keywords: shaved fennel salad, rocket salad, fennel seeds, lemon salad dressing, Mediterranean salad, fresh fennel recipe, no-cook salad