Embrace the vibrant flavors of autumn with our delectable Fall Green Apple and Fennel Salad! This refreshing dish combines the crispness of green apples with the subtle anise notes of fennel, creating a salad that's not only visually stunning but also a feast for the senses. Toss in some toasted walnuts and dried cranberries for an extra crunch and sweetness, and you have a perfect accompaniment to any fall meal. Ready to impress your guests or simply treat yourself? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that takes just 15 minutes to prepare—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 green apples
- 1 bulb of fennel
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the fennel by trimming off the stalks and removing any tough outer layers. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the fennel bulb very thinly, creating delicate, translucent pieces.
- Wash the green apples thoroughly and core them. Cut the apples into thin, uniform matchstick-sized pieces, maintaining a consistent width to ensure even texture throughout the salad.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once they become fragrant and lightly golden, remove from heat and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a light vinaigrette dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced fennel, apple matchsticks, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately, presenting the salad chilled or at cool room temperature as a refreshing autumn side dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for tart green apples like Granny Smith. Their crispness will complement the fennel beautifully.
- Slice with Precision: When slicing the fennel and apples, aim for uniform pieces. This ensures even distribution of flavors and makes for an aesthetically pleasing salad.
- Toast the Walnuts: Don’t skip toasting the walnuts! This simple step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette to your liking. Add a touch of honey for sweetness or a dash of mustard for a bit of zing.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for about 5 minutes before serving helps the ingredients meld together, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Serve Chilled: For a refreshing experience, serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, making it the perfect dish for any fall gathering.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
