Fresh Citrus and Fennel Salad | Light, Refreshing & Flavorful Winter Salad

Introduction

Looking for a salad that’s as stunning as it is delicious? This Fresh Citrus and Fennel Salad is a true showstopper — light, crisp, and bursting with zesty flavor! Made with juicy oranges, crunchy fennel, and a hint of mint, it’s the ultimate salad to brighten up your winter or spring table. 🌿

Perfect for brunch, holidays, or weeknight dinners, this refreshing salad pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled chicken, or even a simple pasta. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it an easy crowd-pleaser for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Fresh Citrus and Fennel Salad

• Bursting with flavor: Sweet, tangy, and aromatic all in one bite.
• Naturally gluten-free & vegan: Simple, clean ingredients that feel gourmet.
• Perfect for any season: Especially refreshing during winter citrus season.
• Quick to make: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Eye-catching presentation: A colorful mix of oranges, grapefruit, and herbs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 large oranges (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 grapefruit (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 small fennel bulb, trimmed and thinly sliced (save fronds for garnish)
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, torn
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• Sliced avocado
• Crumbled goat cheese or feta
• Toasted pistachios or almonds for crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep the citrus:
Using a sharp knife, peel and slice the oranges and grapefruit into thin rounds. Remove any seeds.

Step 2 – Slice the fennel:
Trim the fennel bulb and slice it very thinly using a mandoline or knife. Save some fronds for garnish.

Step 3 – Mix the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4 – Assemble the salad:
Layer fennel slices on a platter, then top with orange and grapefruit rounds. Add red onion and mint leaves.

Step 5 – Drizzle and serve:
Pour the dressing evenly over the salad. Garnish with fennel fronds and optional nuts or cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This Fresh Citrus and Fennel Salad pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled shrimp, salmon, or chicken
• Quinoa or wild rice bowls
• A side of crusty gluten-free bread

It also makes a perfect starter for brunches or holiday meals like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas.

Recipe Notes

• Use a mix of blood oranges, navel oranges, or Cara Cara oranges for color contrast.
• Chill the salad for 15–20 minutes before serving for extra crispness.
• Slice fennel right before serving to maintain its crunch.
• Store dressing separately if making ahead.

Special Note

This salad celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients — the sweetness of citrus, the refreshing crunch of fennel, and the brightness of mint come together for a dish that’s both elegant and easy. Don’t skip the herbs or nuts; they elevate every bite!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 145 kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 18g
• Sugar: 13g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g

(Approximate values; may vary based on ingredients used.)

Love This Recipe?

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Bring a burst of sunshine and color to your next meal with this light and flavorful dish!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Q2. Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh citrus?
Fresh slices are best for flavor and presentation, but a splash of juice can enhance the dressing.

Q3. What’s a good substitute for fennel?
Thinly sliced celery or cucumber works well for a similar crunch.

Q4. Is this recipe Whole30 or paleo-friendly?
Yes — simply omit the honey or use a compliant sweetener.

Disclaimer

Nutritional information is automatically calculated and should be considered an estimate. Always check ingredient labels for allergens or dietary restrictions.