Orange, Fennel and Avocado Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orange, Fennel and Avocado Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together the sweet juiciness of oranges, the crisp and slightly anise-like flavor of fennel, and the creamy richness of avocado. This salad is perfect as a light lunch, a dinner side, or an elegant starter. It’s healthy, visually stunning, and bursting with complementary textures and flavors.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

orangesfennel bulbsavocadosred onion (optional)olive oilfresh lemon or lime juicefresh mint or parsley (optional)salt and black pepper

directions

Peel the oranges, removing as much of the white pith as possible, and slice into rounds or segments.

Trim the fennel bulbs, removing the stalks and fronds (reserve fronds for garnish if desired), then thinly slice the bulbs.

Halve the avocados, remove the pits, and slice the flesh into wedges or cubes.

If using red onion, slice it thinly and soak in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor, then drain.

Arrange the orange slices, fennel, and avocado on a platter or in a bowl.

Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped mint, parsley, or fennel fronds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy touch.

Include arugula or mixed greens for a more substantial salad.

Use blood oranges or grapefruit for a colorful twist.

Add a handful of toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios for crunch.

Drizzle with a honey vinaigrette for extra sweetness.

storage/reheating

*Best enjoyed fresh.*If needed, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, but note that the avocado may brown slightly.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to assemble and dress just before serving to maintain freshness.

What kind of oranges should I use?

Navel oranges work well, but feel free to mix varieties like Cara Cara or blood oranges for flavor and color.

Is fennel strong in flavor?

Fennel has a mild, sweet licorice-like flavor that’s refreshing when thinly sliced and served raw.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss avocado slices with a bit of citrus juice (lemon or lime) before adding to the salad.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, a citrus vinaigrette or even a balsamic glaze can work beautifully.

Conclusion

Orange, Fennel and Avocado Salad is a simple yet sophisticated dish that highlights the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. With its balance of sweet, savory, and creamy elements, this salad is a standout choice for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, visually appealing, and irresistibly delicious.

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