Blood Orange Fennel Salad Recipe

Salads don’t have to be boring, and this recipe proves that! 

This Blood Orange Fennel Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. 

The combination of juicy blood oranges, crisp fennel, and a zesty vinaigrette creates a salad that’s both light and satisfying.

Whether you’re planning a family meal, entertaining guests, or just looking to add more fresh produce to your day, this salad is a must-try. 

Let’s dive into how to make this colorful and nutrient-packed dish from scratch!

Ingredients For Our Bloody Orange And Fennel Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious salad:

• 3 blood oranges, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional, soaked in cold water to mellow if needed)
• 1 cup radicchio, thinly sliced (optional, for a slightly bitter contrast)
• 1 small clove garlic, finely minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• ¼ cup white or red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp sugar (optional, or substitute with maple syrup)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Handful of freshly chopped parsley, for garnish

Optional Toppings

• Vegan feta cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet and zesty flavors.
• Toasted nuts or seeds: Try walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for added crunch.

Our Advice For Choosing the Perfect Blood Oranges

Blood oranges are the star of this salad, bringing a unique blend of sweet and tangy flavors. To pick the best ones:

1. Look for Vibrant Colors: The skin should have a deep red blush or orange hue.
2. Check for Freshness: Avoid fruits with soft spots or discoloration.
3. Feel the Texture: The oranges should be firm yet yield slightly under gentle pressure.

When sliced, their beautiful red flesh will brighten up your salad and deliver an unmistakable citrusy sweetness.

Preparing the Fennel and Onion/Radicchio

Fennel and your choice of red onion or radicchio form the crunchy, aromatic base of this salad. Here’s how to prepare them:

Fennel

1. Trim the Stalks and Fronds: Remove the stalks and save the feathery fronds for garnish if desired.
2. Slice Thinly: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the fennel bulb thinly for maximum crunch.
3. Discard the Core: If the core is tough, remove it before slicing.

Red Onion or Radicchio

1. For Red Onion: Thinly slice half a small red onion. Soak the slices in cold water for 10–15 minutes to mellow the flavor, if preferred.
2. For Radicchio: Remove any damaged outer leaves and slice the head thinly to add a pop of bitter contrast.

How to Make the Dressing

The zesty citrus vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • ¼ cup white or red wine vinegar
   • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
   • 1 small clove garlic, minced
   • ½ tsp sugar (optional, or substitute with maple syrup).
2. Slowly drizzle in 2 tbsp olive oil, whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Salad

Now it’s time to bring everything together:

1. Arrange the sliced fennel, blood oranges, and your choice of red onion or radicchio on a large serving platter or in a salad bowl.
2. Drizzle with the prepared vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and optional toppings like vegan feta or toasted nuts for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions For This Blood Orange And Fennel Salad

This Blood Orange Fennel Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Light Entrée: Serve alongside a bowl of hearty lentil soup or roasted vegetable tart.
• Side Dish: Pair with pasta dishes, risotto, or grilled veggies for a vibrant contrast.
• Holiday Spread: Add it to your festive table for a refreshing break from heavier dishes.

Storage Tips

If you’re making this salad ahead of time or storing leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the dressing separately to keep the salad fresh.
• Serving Tip: Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain its crisp texture.

Variations You Might Enjoy

Looking to mix things up? Here are some easy ways to adapt this salad:

• Swap the Citrus: Try Cara Cara oranges or grapefruits for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add Protein: Toss in some roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu for a more filling dish.
• Include More Greens: Serve on a bed of arugula or spinach for an extra boost of leafy greens.

Final Thoughts

This Blood Orange Fennel Salad is the perfect way to brighten up your meals with fresh, seasonal ingredients. 

The option to add red onion or radicchio brings even more flavor and versatility, making this salad customizable for any occasion.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just as a treat for yourself, this salad is bound to impress. 

Give it a try today and enjoy the refreshing taste of blood oranges and fennel in every bite!

Ready for more? We think you’ll love our mushroom risotto.