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Shaved Fennel & Rocket Salad Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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