Ironically, this absolutely delicious Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad was had on what I can only describe as one of the worst, most anxious days I have had that are burned into my brain. My husband and I were on a mission to find something, and when we finally found it… let’s just say we bought under “pressure” and it left us super anxious as to whether we made the right decision. BUT, we did go for lunch and had a version of this salad and it was DIVINE. That is the other thing that is stuck inside my head – LOL. Let’s dive in.
The subtle anis flavor of the fennel pairs perfectly well with the slight sweet and tangy-ness of the orange. In my version, I am adding olives for some additional healthy fats, and added texture, and a slightly savory contrast to the vegetables. I have also added some additional herbs. Parsley is usually my go-to choice for these kinds of salads, but mint or basil could work just as well. Last but not least, the feta used in this recipe provides both a creamy and tangy element that should not be underestimated or missed!
What You Will Find in This Post
- Why is this Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad good for you?
- Easy Swaps and Questions
- How to adjust this recipe to your individual dietary requirements
- Other delicious salad-inspired recipes on the blog
Why is this Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad good for you?
Although fennel is home to the Mediterranean, it is now largely cultivated across the globe. It contains the bulb, leaves, and edible seeds. Whereas the bulb can be eaten and leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, the seeds are usually used in baked goods, teas, and curries. Fennel is rich in vitamin K, which is excellent for bone health and blood clotting. It is also rich in potassium. Potassium is crucial for a healthy nervous system and supports our muscles in contracting. Additionally, fennel is high in fiber, which can help to reduce both your cholesterol and blood sugar levels. This, in turn, is excellent for your heart health. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce indigestion and signs of irritable bowel syndrome. Last but not least, fennel protects the liver and appears to have a cleansing effect on it.
Easy Swaps and Questions
Can I add some additional greens into this salad? Yes, you certainly can. I have found that some rocket works well, or I presume lamb’s lettuce would work nice. I would only add this last minute though, so that it does not get soggy.
I do not have parsley on hand, can I use other herbs? Of course! You can absolutely use either basil or mint instead or in addition to parsley for this salad.
How can I up the protein intake of this salad? There are several options here. (1) You add in a bit of steamed tofu next to the feta cheese. (2) You serve it alongside your protein option of choice as a “side salad”. (3) You add some lentils or black beans (from a can) into the salad.
How to adjust this Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad to your individual dietary requirements?
This salad is gluten-free, vegetarian, and nut-free. In order to make it vegan and dairy-free use some vegan feta cheese.
Other Delicious Salad-inspired Recipes on the Blog
There are so many delicious, crunchy, and absolutely divine salad recipes on the blog. Salad does not have to be either blunt or boring! Be sure to check out the following:
- Perfect Soba Noodle Salad
- Vegetarian Taco Salad
- Vegan Tuscan “Tuna” and White Bean Salad
- Easiest Yummy Chickpea Salad
- Jackfruit Fajita Salad
And there you have it for this week. I hope you enjoy this absolutely delicious Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad as much as we do over here. I am sure this will be a regular in my rotation, now that the temperature is getting warmer. As always, do let me know what you think, I look forward to reading your comments!
Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad
2
servings10
minutesSweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy. This Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad has it all whilst being incredibly quick to make. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- For the Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad
1 fennel bulb
2 large or 3 medium oranges – see notes*
1/2 cup (ca. 90gr.) black olives – see notes*
A large handful parsley
150 gr. feta or vegan feta cheese
- For the dressing
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 an orange, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
How to
- For the Mediterranean Fennel and Orange Salad
- Wash the fennel and cut finely into length-wise pieces. Add to a large salad bowl. Cut the peel of the oranges by cutting the top and bottom first and then going with the knife around the range. Once peeled, cut into pieces. Chop a large handful of parsley and cut the (vegan) feta cheese into rather big pieces. Add everything to the salad bowl
- For the dressing
- Add the olive oil and orange juice to the bowl, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Notes
- You could also add a mixture of blood oranges and oranges for more color
- I used kalamon olives, simply because I like the taste
