Fennel and Orange Salad
A classic winter dish that celebrates the simplicity and freshness of ingredients. This salad combines the crunch and clean aroma of fennel with the juicy sweetness of oranges, enhanced by a touch of pink pepper and wild fennel. A perfect balance that reflects the season with elegance and lightness.
This vibrant and refreshing winter salad showcases the essence of seasonal produce in a simple yet elegant way, highlighting the natural flavors of its ingredients.
Instructions
- 1
Wash and thoroughly dry the oranges. Using a sharp, smooth-bladed knife, cut a thin slice from the base and the top to stabilize the fruit on the cutting board. Then, score the peel from top to bottom following the curve of the orange, removing all the white pith (albedo) to prevent bitterness. Rotate the orange until the pulp is completely exposed.
- 2
Holding the orange in your hand, separate the segments by cutting between the membranes with the knife, obtaining clean segments without membranes. Collect the segments in a bowl, including the juice that escapes, which is valuable for the dressing.
- 3
Wash the fennel bulbs, remove the fronds, and set them aside (useful as a garnish if wild fennel is unavailable). Slice the fennel very thinly, about 2-3 mm thick, preferably with a mandoline to get uniform slices.
- 4
In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel, the collected orange juice, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, almost all the pink pepper, and the olives. Mix carefully and season with a pinch of salt.
- 5
Transfer the salad to a large serving plate, spreading the orange segments evenly to decorate and balance the flavors.
- 6
Finish with another drizzle of oil, a final sprinkle of pink pepper, and the wild fennel for a fresh, aromatic, and distinctive touch.
Ago's Notes
- Choosing Sicilian or Taggiasca olives is essential to maintain the Mediterranean authenticity of the dish, providing a rich yet balanced flavor.
- This salad should be served fresh, as a light main course or a refined side dish, capable of highlighting the natural goodness of winter ingredients with simplicity and taste.
This fennel and orange salad offers a fresh, aromatic, and distinctive touch perfect for winter. Its clean profile perfectly balances the crunch of fennel with the juiciness of oranges, making it both light and satisfying. The addition of pink peppercorns and wild fennel adds a surprising depth that complements the traditional Italian flavors while providing a modern twist.
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