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    Home » Popular » Italian Recipes

    January 26, 2021 Gluten Free

    The Best Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad

    Jump to Recipe - Print Recipe

    The most refreshing of winter salads, this recipe for Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad is a delight. This great recipe is vibrant and bursting with fresh flavors from the sweet and juicy oranges, crunchy fennel, red onions, and tart pomegranate arils. It’s a delicious flavor combination perfect for a dinner party or any special occasion.

    overhead image of sicilian fennel and orange salad

    Originally published March 11, 2019, updated 2023.

    Crunchy fennel and red onion, sweet oranges and a touch of tart pomegranate makes the most delicious winter salad. With just a a handful of ingredients you could have a truly delicious and unique salad. For my vegan and vegetarian friends, this is totally VEGAN: it is dairy free. It is also gluten free.

    Citrus is so easy to to find in the middle of this season and it is an ingredient we love to experiment when the weather is chilly outside. Another fantastic citrus salad is this Beet, Orange, Kumquat and Quinoa Salad.

    Winter is the season when various citrus fruits suddenly appear. For this savory fruit salad, you could use a mixture of blood, navel, and Cara Cara oranges. Y

    ou could even add a gorgeous grapefruit to give it a little tart flavor or use just one type of orange like we did. Thinly sliced fennel and red onion add a tasty bit of crunch. It is also wonderful served with a green salad.

    When I think of Sicilian cooking I think if its freshness and simplicity, which is so apparent in this refreshing and vibrant salad. It’s a wonderful salad to have as a side dish with any seafood dish or even a braised meat dish.

    Feel free to use your favorite citrus or what you find at the market. It’s stunning with just blood oranges or you could even use tangerines.

    The hallmarks of Sicilian cooking are simplicity and freshness, as evident in this refreshing salad. It’s the perfect side for our Sicilian seafood stew, or almost any braised meat dish.

    If you can’t find blood or Cara Cara oranges, you can substitute any sweet citrus fruits, such as tangerines, grapefruit or navel oranges.

    A simple salad with humble ingredients which is truly what Sicilian food is all about. This is a salad my father used to make and it reminds me of him.

    I'm sharing it for my personal record and for my kids to one day look back on and feel connected somehow through a recipe with their Nonno Rosario and their ancestors from the most splendid island in the world: Sicilia.

    See what else I shared for #ProjectSicilia in 2019:

    January: Sicilian Savoiardi Cookies

    February: Sicilian Pignolata-Italian Honey Balls

    Jump To
    • Why you will love this fennel and orange salad
    • Ingredients for Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad
    • Directions for Making Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad
    • Substitutions/Variations for this orange and fennel salad
    • Expert Tips for this orange fennel salad
    • What to Serve it With
    • Storing Tips for this simple salad recipe
    • FAQ'S
    • More recipes like this:
    • Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad
    overhead image of orange salad on white plate

    Why you will love this fennel and orange salad

    1. Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: The brightness of the oranges blends beautifully with the crunchiness of the fennel and the slight bitterness of its leaves, while the sweet burst of tartness from the pomegranate arils adds an unexpected twist.
    2. Easy to Prepare: This salad is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep work and no cooking at all, making it the perfect quick and healthy meal option.
    3. Nutrient-Dense: This salad is not just delicious, but also packed full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, thanks to the fresh fruits and veggies.
    4. Versatile: It serves as a perfect side dish to a variety of main courses but can also be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch or snack.
    5. Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the salad ingredients make for a visually appealing dish that's sure to impress guests.

    Ingredients for Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad

    Here are the fresh and vibrant ingredients you will need for this delightful salad:

    1. Fennel (1 bulb, thinly sliced): Fennel's aniseed flavor adds a refreshing crunch to the salad and pairs perfectly with the sweet oranges.
    2. Oranges (3, peeled and sliced): The sweet and tangy flavor of oranges gives this salad a burst of freshness. Opt for navel oranges for the best taste and texture.
    3. Red Onion (1 medium, thinly sliced): Red onions add a hint of sharpness, balancing out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
    4. Pomegranate seeds(1, deseeded): The arils provide a sweet-tart pop of flavor, plus they add a beautiful jewel-like appearance to the dish.
    5. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): This will dress the salad, giving it a rich, smooth texture and adding a subtly fruity taste.
    6. Lemon (1, juiced): Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the salad, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
    7. Salt and Pepper (to taste): These seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the salad ingredients. Always season to your taste.
    8. Fresh Mint (a handful, chopped): Adds a fresh, cool flavor that complements the citrus and fennel wonderfully.
    overhead image of salad with oranges and pomegranate arils on white plate

    Directions for Making Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad

    Follow these simple steps to assemble your Sicilian Salad:

    1. Prep the ingredients: Thinly slice the fennel bulb and red onion, peel and slice the oranges, and deseed the pomegranate to extract the arils. Chop up a handful of fresh mint.
    2. Dress the salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    3. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, add the sliced fennel, oranges, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
    4. Add the dressing: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon dressing over the salad. Toss again gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
    5. Garnish the salad: Sprinkle the pomegranate arils and chopped mint over the salad for the final touches.
    6. Serve: The salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy this fresh, vibrant salad as a side dish or a light, healthy meal on its own.

    Substitutions/Variations for this orange and fennel salad

    1. Citrus Variations: Swap the oranges for grapefruit or blood orange for a tangy twist.
    2. Herb Variations: While mint adds a fresh note to this salad, you could also use fresh dill or parsley for a different flavor profile.
    3. Use Arugula: Add some arugula for a peppery note and to make the salad more filling.

    Expert Tips for this orange fennel salad

    1. To get the most juice out of your lemon, roll it on the countertop before cutting and squeezing.
    2. When slicing the fennel, save the fronds (the dill-like tops) to use as an additional garnish. They have a lovely, delicate flavor.
    3. If you want to prep the salad in advance, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve so the ingredients stay crisp.

    What to Serve it With

    This Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes:

    1. Seafood: The fresh, tangy flavors complement grilled or baked fish.
    2. Chicken: It pairs well with roast chicken, whether it's a simple Sunday roast or a more elaborate dish like chicken stuffed with feta and spinach.
    3. Pasta: Serve it alongside a pasta dish like spaghetti aglio e olio for a complete Sicilian-inspired meal.
    4. Vegetarian: For a vegetarian meal, pair the salad with a creamy risotto. The contrasting textures and flavors will delight your palate.

    Storing Tips for this simple salad recipe

    Storing this salad correctly can extend its freshness and maintain its crisp texture. Here are some helpful tips:

    1. Separate Components: If you have leftovers or are prepping the salad in advance, store the undressed salad and the dressing separately. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
    2. Refrigerate: Place the undressed salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dressing should also be refrigerated in a separate, sealed container.
    3. Use within 3 Days: For the best taste and texture, consume the salad within three days of preparing it.
    4. Add Dressing Just Before Serving: When ready to serve, take the salad and dressing out of the fridge, drizzle the dressing over the salad, and toss gently to combine.

    Storing your Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad in this way will ensure you can enjoy its fresh, vibrant flavors for as long as possible!

    FAQ'S

    What tastes good with fennel?

    Fennel's unique aniseed flavor pairs exceptionally well with citrus fruits like orange and lemon. It also complements the flavors of apple, celery, cucumber, and herbs such as dill and mint. For proteins, fennel is a great match for both fish and chicken.

    What is a fennel salad?

    A fennel salad is a fresh and vibrant salad primarily made from thinly sliced fennel bulbs. It often includes other ingredients such as citrus fruits, pomegranate, and herbs, paired with a simple dressing, usually composed of olive oil and lemon juice.

    How do you cut fennel for salad?

    To cut fennel for salad, begin by removing the stalks and the root end from the bulb. Slice the bulb in half lengthwise and remove the hard core in the center. Then, lay the halves cut-side down and thinly slice them crosswise for delicate, crunchier pieces.

    Why do people eat fennel after a meal?

    Fennel is often consumed after meals as it's believed to aid digestion and alleviate bloating. Its refreshing and slightly sweet taste serves as a perfect palate cleanser, making it a popular choice for an after-meal snack or digestive.

    How long will this fennel salad stay fresh?

    As long as you do not put the dressing on salad, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy it, toss with the dressing!

    overhead image of fruit salad on white plate

    Pin it to your HEALTHY RECIPE, DINNER, LUNCH or SALAD Board to SAVE for later!

    Find me on Pinterest for more great recipes! I am always pinning :)!

    More recipes like this:

    • Easy Pasta con le Sarde (Sicilian Pasta with Sardines)
    • Quick and Easy Italian Tomato Salad
    • Whole30 Broccoli Salad

    Did you make this? Please RATE THE RECIPE below:)

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    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate this Recipe
    5 from 6 votes

    Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad

    The most refreshing of winter salads, this recipe for Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad is a delight. It's vibrant and bursting with fresh flavors from the sweet and juicy oranges, crunchy fennel, red onion, and tart pomegranate arils. It’s a delicious flavor combination that will brighten up those end of winter days!
    Prep Time15 minutes mins
    Cook Time15 minutes mins
    Total Time30 minutes mins
    Course: Salad
    Cuisine: Italian
    Keyword: Salad
    Calories: 152kcal
    Author: Lora

    Equipment

    • 1 whisk

    Ingredients

    • 1 large fennel bulb trimmed and thinly sliced
    • 1 small red onion very thinly sliced
    • 2 medium oranges sliced into thin rounds, peels cut away
    • 2 tablespoons pomegranate arils
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
    • Salt and pepper
    • Tablespoon Italian parsley chopped

    Instructions

    • Arrange orange slices and fennel on a large serving platter in a random pattern. Scatter the onion and pomegranate arils on top.
    • Whisk together the olive, vinegar, salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed. Spoon dressing over the salad. Add more salt if needed. Also wonderful served with a green salad. Sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley (optional).

    Nutrition Disclaimer

    Please keep in mind that the nutritional information presented below is an approximation and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

    Notes

    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

    Tag @savoringitaly on Instagram and hashtag it #savoringitaly

    Nutrition

    Calories: 152kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 77mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.2mg
    Tried this recipe?Mention @savoringitaly or tag #savoringitaly!
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Gust și Aromă says

      March 12, 2019 at 11:40 am

      These flavors! This salad looks incredible! I want to try it asap!

      Reply
    2. Diethood.com says

      March 12, 2019 at 12:49 pm

      Pretty salad with fab flavors, Lora!!

      Reply
    3. Taylor says

      March 12, 2019 at 6:37 pm

      Love the fresh flavors in this salad! Yum!

      Reply
    4. Jacque Hastert says

      March 12, 2019 at 6:51 pm

      You have combined amazing flavors to make this delicious salad.

      Reply
    5. deseree says

      March 12, 2019 at 7:21 pm

      All the flavors in this salad are fantastic. It is perfect for summer with the refreshing flavor of oranges tied in.

      Reply
    6. Amanda says

      January 27, 2020 at 8:40 pm

      5 stars
      Soant fantastic flavors in this recipe!

      Reply
    7. Vikki says

      January 28, 2020 at 1:17 am

      5 stars
      This salad looks so colorful and tasty! I love it

      Reply
    8. Erin | Dinners,Dishes and Dessert says

      January 28, 2020 at 4:20 am

      5 stars
      This recipe for Sicilian Fennel and Orange Salad couldn't look any more perfect!

      Reply
    9. Tiffany La Forge-Grau says

      January 28, 2020 at 3:09 pm

      This recipe looks like a lot of fun to make! I love Italian food and this looks perfect.

      Reply
    10. Sara Welch says

      January 28, 2020 at 5:01 pm

      5 stars
      Love a crisp and refreshing salad and this hits the spot! Delish!

      Reply
    11. Beth says

      January 29, 2020 at 4:25 pm

      5 stars
      The fennel and orange pair so well together! Love it!

      Reply
    12. Amanda says

      January 31, 2020 at 8:04 am

      5 stars
      Love a citrus salad this time of year! This is fabulous!

      Reply
    13. Mimi says

      February 04, 2020 at 9:35 am

      This is beautiful. I have not yet traveled to Sicily, but I will! My real father was born and raised there until he came to the states as a teenager. If no other reason I need to go for the food! And the scenery, of course.

      Reply
      • Lora says

        February 05, 2020 at 7:17 am

        Hi Mimi, I am happy you like the salad. Yes, you must get there for the food (and the scenery is amazing!!). Thanks for stopping by!! xx

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    Welcome to our Italian kitchen! We are Lora and Gabriella, the mother-daughter team behind Savoring Italy. With more than 30+ years of experience in the kitchen, Lora has had a great advantage – receiving guidance from both her husband who is an executive chef/restaurant owner and her mother who is a renowned private chef. 

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