Print

Fennel Apple Salad with Walnuts and Pecorino Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 72 reviews

A refreshing and vibrant Fennel Apple Salad featuring crisp fennel bulbs, tart red apple, peppery arugula, crunchy walnuts, and tangy lemon dressing, topped with salty pecorino cheese for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Salad

  • 2 bulbs fennel, thinly sliced
  • 1 red apple, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups arugula
  • 1/4 cup walnuts
  • 2 ounces pecorino or parmesan cheese, shaved

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the fennel and apple: Wash the fennel bulbs and remove the tough stalks and fronds. Thinly slice the fennel bulbs using a sharp knife or mandoline. Core the red apple and slice it thinly as well, leaving the skin on for added texture and color.
  2. Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel, apple, and arugula. Drizzle the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Add the finishing touches: Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and shaved pecorino or parmesan cheese on top of the salad. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and best texture.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thin slices of fennel and apple.
  • To prevent apple slices from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before mixing with other ingredients.
  • For a nut-free option, omit walnuts or substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds.
  • Shave the cheese with a vegetable peeler for delicate, thin slices that melt easily on the tongue.
  • This salad pairs well with light grilled proteins such as chicken or fish.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/fennel-apple-salad-with-walnuts-and-pecorino-recipe/