Sicilian Style Fennel Salad

If you’re searching for a light, flavorful, and no-cook dish, this Sicilian Style Fennel Salad is a must-try. Bursting with fresh ingredients like crisp fennel bulb, sweet navel oranges, and aromatic fresh mint, this salad brings the taste of Sicily to your table. Whether you’re new to fennel salad recipes or a longtime fan, this dish is sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Salad

This Italian fennel salad is:

• Refreshing – Perfect for hot summer days.
• Easy to make – No cooking required!
• Healthy – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Versatile – Works as a side dish or a light main course.

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Ingredients for Sicilian Fennel Salad

To make this fennel bulb salad, you’ll need:

• 1 bulb fennel (thinly sliced)
• 1 navel orange (zested, peeled, and segmented)
• ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 tbsp fresh mint or basil (chopped)
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil

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How to Make Sicilian Style Fennel Salad

Step 1: Prep the Fennel

1. Wash the fennel bulb and remove the fronds (save 2 tbsp for garnish).
2. Use a mandoline or peeler to slice the fennel into thin ribbons.
3. Toss with kosher salt and let sit for 1 hour to draw out juices (this creates a natural dressing).

Step 2: Prepare the Other Ingredients

• Segment the orange and zest it for extra flavor.
• Thinly slice the red onion and chop the fresh mint.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Combine the fennel, orange segments, onion, mint, orange zest, and olive oil. Toss gently and garnish with fennel fronds.

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Tips for the Best Fennel Salad

• Choose fresh fennel – Look for a heavy bulb with no blemishes.
• Let it rest – Allowing the salted fennel to sit ensures maximum flavor.
• Herb swap – Prefer basil over mint? Both work wonderfully!
• Make ahead – Prepare the fennel in advance, but add oranges last to keep them fresh.

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Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Add protein – Top with grilled shrimp or seared salmon for a heartier meal.
• Cheese lovers – Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta.
• Citrus twist – Swap oranges with grapefruit or blood oranges.

Serve this salad with fennel alongside grilled meats, seafood, or as part of an Italian antipasto platter.

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FAQs About Sicilian Fennel Salad