Best Fennel Apple Salad Recipe
This is such an underrated recipe – the flavor combo just works here resulting a light, crisp and delicious side salad that is fancy enough for a Holiday, but simple enough for an easy weeknight dinner (it would pair well with some grilled chicken thighs). The first time we had this winter salad we were blown away by all the fresh flavors. Can’t wait for you to try it!
Looking for More Side Salads?
If you love a good side salad as much as we do, you definitely need to try our Apple Salad or Carrot Salad + Honey Vinaigrette!
Key Ingredients + Substitutions
Be sure to see the recipe card below for a full listing of ingredients, instructions, and estimated nutritional information.
- apples: we used honeycrisp apples, but you could use a variety of different flavors, really depends upon what you like the most.
- fresh lemon juice: just using this to toss the apples in so they don’t turn brown, plus it adds a tiny bit of citrus to the dish.
- fresh fennel: fennel bulbs have such a unique flavor and goes so well with sweet ingredients like apple – learn how to cut fennel here!
- manchego cheese: you could use any light, white cheese here (like parmesan cheese) with success – but I highly recommend the manchego for best results.
- extra virgin olive oil + kosher salt: we add this so the salad doesn’t get dry and the salt just helps maximize flavor.
- basil leaves: this adds freshness!
Recipe Variations
This is a very versatile salad! There are so many different ways you could prepare it! Some other great additions would be orange slices, black olives, fresh mint, red pepper flakes for some spice, or a drizzle of maple syrup for some added sweetness.
How to Make Fennel Apple Salad
Step 1: Combine apples and lemon juice, stir to coat. Meanwhile, use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife and cutting board to prepare the other ingredients. Add everything to a large bowl.
Step 2: Stir to combine. Taste and adjust any seasoning, as-needed.
Storage
This delicious salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. If there is time, we actually love to prep it at least 30 minutes before serving it so that the flavors have a chance to permeate the fennel. And if you can let it sit overnight, the flavor will be so good the next day!
Made this recipe and loved it?!
We would love it if you would take a minute and leave a star rating and review โ it is also helpful if you made any substitutions or changes to the recipe to share that as well. THANK YOU!
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Ingredients
- 1-2 honey crisp apples, diced
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 cup fennel bulb, (how to slice fennel)
- 1 cup manchego cheese, diced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Approx. 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Apples: Combine apples and lemon juice in a small bowl; stir to coat and set aside.
- Combine: Meanwhile, prepare the remaining ingredients. Combine all ingredients in a medium salad bowl. Stir to combine.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning, as-needed. Enjoy!
Notes
- Shaved fennel salad: if you prefer, feel free to use shaved fennel instead of sliced.
- Storage: store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Making ahead: if you are making this ahead of time I would recommend adding the basil leaves right before serving, so they are fresh.
- Add ins: if you want a bit more of a bite, you can add in a little fresh red onion!
- Serving: this would be perfect for a light lunch with grilled bread OR as a holiday side dish to our standing rib roast recipe!ย
Nutrition
Originally published April 3, 2016.
Liz says
Made this for the in-laws tonight and they were in love! It was the perfect way to usher in spring – light, crispy, refreshing, but also filling thanks to the fiber filled apples and cheese. Loved this one!
Caitlin Wells says
Holy moly. Made this tonight because it seemed light and fresh after heavier thanksgiving foods. Iโm having to work to not eat it all before serving for dinner – simple, light, easy and so so good. Will definitely make again.
Erin says
So glad you enjoyed it, Caitlin! And thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review – I so appreciate it!