Ina Garten Fennel Salad Recipe

Ina Garten’s Fennel Salad is a light, elegant dish that highlights the natural crunch and subtle licorice flavor of fresh fennel, enhanced by lemon, Parmesan, and a simple vinaigrette. It’s a perfect palate cleanser and works beautifully as a side dish to rich entrées or as part of a light lunch.

This salad delivers Ina’s signature combination of simplicity, freshness, and sophistication in every bite.

What Is Ina Garten’s Fennel Salad?

This salad features thinly sliced raw fennel bulbs dressed in a lemony vinaigrette and topped with shaved Parmesan. It may include arugula, radishes, or citrus segments for added color and flavor. The result is crisp, cool, and packed with bright, clean taste.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Chicken Salad Sandwich
• Ina Garten’s Roasted Beet Salad
• Ina Garten’s Confetti Corn Salad
• Ina Garten Artichoke Salad

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Fennel Salad

• Light and refreshing – Great as a starter or side
• Quick to prepare – Ready in just 10 minutes
• Pairs well with heavy mains – Balances out rich flavors
• Naturally low-carb and gluten-free
• Elegant presentation – Impressive with minimal effort
• Full of texture – Crisp fennel, creamy cheese, and sharp vinaigrette
• A refreshing break from leafy greens

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Fennel Salad

• 2 large fennel bulbs, tops removed
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1–2 cups arugula or baby greens
• Optional: citrus segments (orange or grapefruit) or thinly sliced radishes

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Fennel Salad

Step 1: Prep the fennel

Trim the fennel bulbs and remove the tough outer layer. Cut in half lengthwise and slice very thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife. Place in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Toss the fennel

Pour the vinaigrette over the sliced fennel. Toss gently to coat and let sit for 5–10 minutes so the fennel softens slightly and absorbs the dressing.

Step 4: Add extras and garnish

Add arugula or citrus segments if using. Top with shaved Parmesan just before serving.

Step 5: Serve immediately

Transfer to a platter or individual plates and serve chilled or at room temperature.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Fennel Salad

• Grilled fish or shrimp – Complements delicate seafood
• Roast chicken or pork tenderloin – Balances savory, rich dishes
• Pasta with cream or cheese sauces – Cuts through heaviness
• Goat cheese tart or frittata – Elegant brunch pairing
• Tomato soup or gazpacho – Light lunch option
• White wine or sparkling water with lemon – Refreshing beverage match
• Crusty sourdough or focaccia – For added texture

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Fennel Salad

• Use a mandoline for even, paper-thin slices – Ensures best texture
• Let the fennel marinate briefly – Enhances flavor and tenderness
• Choose fresh, firm fennel bulbs – Avoid wilted or bruised ones
• Add arugula or citrus for extra brightness – Customizes flavor profile
• Shave Parmesan fresh – Adds creamy, nutty depth
• Toss lightly to avoid bruising ingredients – Especially when using arugula
• Serve shortly after assembling – Keeps the salad crisp

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Fennel Salad

• Add blood orange or grapefruit segments – Sweet and tangy balance
• Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts – For added crunch
• Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan – Sharper flavor
• Include paper-thin apple or pear slices – Subtle sweetness
• Swap lemon juice for white wine vinegar – Milder acidity
• Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze – Sweet contrast
• Toss in radishes or celery – For extra crunch and color

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Fennel Salad

• Best enjoyed fresh – Fennel loses its crunch when stored
• Store undressed fennel slices in the fridge – Up to 2 days in an airtight container
• Keep vinaigrette separate if prepping ahead – Add just before serving
• Avoid storing dressed salad overnight – Becomes soggy
• Shave Parmesan right before serving – Maintains texture

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Fennel Salad

• No reheating needed – This salad is served cold or at room temperature
• Let it sit out 10 minutes before serving if chilled – Enhances flavor
• Toss again lightly before serving – Redistributes dressing evenly

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 240mg

A crisp, light salad that’s low in calories and high in fresh flavor.

FAQs

Do you eat fennel raw in Ina Garten’s fennel salad?

Yes, fennel is served raw in this salad. Thin slicing helps mellow its flavor and keeps the texture crisp and refreshing.

What does fennel taste like in a salad?

Fennel has a subtle anise or licorice-like flavor with a crunchy texture, making it refreshing and aromatic in raw salads.

Can I prepare fennel salad ahead of time?

You can slice the fennel and prepare the dressing ahead, but it’s best to combine and dress the salad just before serving to maintain its crunch.

What can I substitute for fennel in this salad?

If fennel isn’t available, try using thinly sliced celery, endive, or shaved radishes for a similarly crisp texture.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Fennel Salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when treated with care, can deliver maximum impact. With crunchy fennel, bright lemon, and savory Parmesan, this salad is clean, refreshing, and elegant. Serve it as a starter or alongside your favorite main, and enjoy a dish that feels as special as it is simple.

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