Crunchy Winter Fennel Salad With Apple, Celery, and Seeds
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- Large salad bowl
INGREDIENTS
- 4 celery stalks, julienned
- 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 2 Pink Lady apples, julienned
- ¼ pomelo, segmented
- 1 cup fresh dill, cilantro, or parsley, chopped
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup sunflower seeds
Dressing:
- Juice of 3 fresh lemons
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup, optional
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pumpkin and sunflower seeds until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the celery, fennel, apples, pomelo, and herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, salt, and maple syrup, if using.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with the toasted seeds and serve immediately.
RECIPE NOTES
MY NOTES
FAQ
What makes this winter fennel salad a good seasonal dish?
Winter fennel salad is an excellent seasonal dish because fennel reaches its peak freshness in the colder months, offering a crisp texture and a mild anise flavor that complements winter ingredients. Apples, another key component, are at their best during fall and winter, providing natural sweetness and crunch. Citrus fruits like pomelo, commonly used in this salad, are also in season, adding brightness and acidity that balance the richness of winter meals. The combination of fresh herbs and toasted seeds enhances both the flavor and nutritional value, making this salad a refreshing yet hearty addition to any winter menu.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Winter fennel salad can be made ahead of time with a few precautions to maintain freshness. The fennel and celery hold up well, retaining their crunch even after several hours. However, the apples should be coated in a bit of lemon juice to prevent oxidation and browning. The dressing can be prepared in advance but should be added just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp. Toasted seeds should also be stored separately until ready to serve, as they may lose their crunch if mixed too soon. For best results, assemble the salad up to a day in advance but dress it right before serving.
What type of apple works best in a winter fennel salad?
The best apples for a winter fennel salad are firm and slightly tart varieties that provide a crisp texture and balance the salad’s flavors. Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples are excellent choices because they stay crunchy and offer a natural sweetness that complements the citrus and fennel. Granny Smith apples are another good option if you prefer a sharper, more tart contrast. Softer apples like Red Delicious or Gala tend to become mushy when sliced, so they are less suitable for this salad. Choosing a firm apple ensures that the salad retains its fresh and crisp texture even after dressing.
How do I keep the apples from browning?
To keep apples from browning in a winter fennel salad, coat them in an acidic ingredient like lemon juice or a mild vinegar immediately after slicing. The acid slows down oxidation, which causes browning. Another option is to submerge the sliced apples in a mixture of cold water and lemon juice until you are ready to assemble the salad. If you are making the salad ahead of time, mixing the apples with the citrus dressing before serving will also help preserve their color. Using fresh, firm apples will further reduce the chances of rapid discoloration.
What can I substitute the pomelo with?
Grapefruit is the closest alternative, offering a similar balance of sweetness and mild bitterness. Blood oranges or navel oranges are also excellent choices, providing a sweeter, juicier alternative without the slight bitterness of pomelo. If you prefer a more tart element, Meyer lemons or mandarins can work well in smaller amounts. The key is to choose a citrus fruit that adds brightness and acidity to balance the other ingredients while maintaining the salad’s refreshing quality.
Nut-free alternatives for the toasted seeds
If you need a nut-free alternative for the toasted seeds in a winter fennel salad, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds are excellent options that still provide crunch and flavor. Roasted chickpeas or crispy lentils can also work well, offering a similar texture with added protein. If you prefer something grain-based, toasted quinoa or puffed rice can provide a light crunch without nuts. Hemp seeds are another alternative that add a mild, nutty flavor without triggering nut allergies. Choosing a mix of these substitutes will ensure that the salad retains its signature crunch while remaining nut-free.
What protein would pair well with this winter fennel salad?
Grilled or roasted chicken is one of the best proteins to pair with winter fennel salad, as its mild flavor complements the bright citrus and crunchy vegetables. For a seafood option, seared salmon or grilled shrimp provide a rich, slightly oily contrast that balances the acidity of the dressing. If you prefer a vegetarian protein, chickpeas, white beans, or marinated tofu add both texture and protein without overpowering the dish. Soft cheeses like goat cheese or feta also provide a protein boost while enhancing the salad’s creamy and tangy elements. Any of these additions will make the salad a complete, protein-rich meal.
Can I use a different dressing?
A honey-mustard vinaigrette can add a sweet and tangy element, while a yogurt-based dressing provides a creamy contrast to the crisp vegetables. A miso-ginger dressing introduces an umami depth that works well with the apples and fennel. If you prefer a richer dressing, a tahini-lemon sauce can add creaminess without overwhelming the salad’s natural flavors. Regardless of the dressing choice, keeping the balance of acidity, sweetness, and seasoning will ensure that the salad remains bright and flavorful.
