Welcome, fellow food lovers! Today we’re diving headfirst into a recipe that is tantalizing, healthful, and pleases every discerning palate – a vibrant ‘Fennel and Orange Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts’. With the fresh sweetness of orange, the subtle, licorice-like flavor of fennel, and the crunchy delight of toasted hazelnuts, this salad dances a delicate waltz of flavors perfect for those seeking a heart-healthy option that doesn’t skimp on taste!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delightful salad, you’ll need :
- 2 large oranges, preferably organic
- 1 large fennel bulb
- ½ cup of hazelnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fennel fronds for garnish
Instructions
Start by toasting your hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they’re golden and aromatic. Let them cool before coarsely chopping.
Cut off the top and bottom of each orange. With a sharp knife, slice away the peel and pith, following the curve of the fruit. Cut the oranges into ¼ inch slices and set aside.
Trim the fennel and slice it as thinly as possible. A mandolin comes in handy for this but use what you have on hand.
In a large bowl, combine the orange slices, sliced fennel, chopped hazelnuts, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Toss together until well mixed.
Season your salad with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Dress it with some fennel fronds for an elegant finish.
Cooking Time & Servings
From start to plate, expect about 15-20 minutes to complete this heart-healthy masterpiece. This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends.
Nutritional Information
Eating heart-healthy doesn’t mean you have to forgo flavor. Each serving dishes out not just delectable aromas and tastes, but also an impressively balanced nutritional profile:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 21g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
While we don’t have exact figures on its CoQ10 content, hazelnuts are known sources of this heart-friendly compound, contributing to the salad’s overall allure to those keen on heart health.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra dash of flavor, use blood oranges if they’re in season. Make sure to use the freshest fennel bulb you can find for that crunchy, anise-like goodness that plays off the oranges’ sweetness perfectly. Can’t find any fresh fennel? Celery makes a good substitute in a pinch!
As we bring this culinary journey to a close…
Remember, healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. The ‘Fennel and Orange Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts’ is more than proof! We’d love to hear how you found the experience making this salad. Did you try any cool twists? Share your version on social media and tag us! We’re here to resolve any kitchen queries, so shoot us any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of nut for this salad? Certainly! While hazelnuts add a specific flavor and crunch, you can substitute them with almonds or walnuts.
- Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, this salad is gluten-free.
- I can’t find fresh fennel, what can I use instead? Celery is a good substitute for fennel.
- Can I prepare this salad in advance? Of course. However, add the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
- What can I pair this salad with? This salad pairs beautifully with grilled fish or chicken.
Eating healthily doesn’t mean settling for bland meals. So, what are you waiting for? Brighten up your dinner table tonight with this luscious ‘Fennel and Orange Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts’! Happy cooking!
