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Apple Fennel Salad

This zesty fennel salad recipe can be served as a early course in a multi-course meal or as an entreé. This recipe doesn’t include other aromatics besides onions and fennel. But, you can include others as you like. Thyme or parsley would be very nice additions.

Recipe card by winosity.appEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
FruitLow ProteinVeganLow Cholesterol< 30 Mins
Apple Fennel Salad

Total time

20 min

Servings

4

Calories

371.3

Category

Lunch/Snacks

Bright, crisp, and refreshing, this Apple Fennel Salad is the ultimate plant-based side dish or light lunch. Combining the anise-like crunch of shaved fennel with the sweet, tart snap of fresh apples, this vegan salad is tossed in a zesty citrus vinaigrette that elevates simple ingredients into a sophisticated meal. Perfect for a quick 20-minute prep, this heart-healthy recipe is naturally low in protein and cholesterol, making it an excellent addition to your weekly wellness rotation.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

  • 3 lemon juice
  • 1/4 olive oil
  • 3 celery ribs
  • 1/2 walnuts
  • 1/2 parmesan cheese
  • 2 fennel
  • 2 red onion

Method

  1. Slice the apples, onion,fennel, and celery into crescents.

  2. Reserve fennel tops for garnish.

  3. Roughly chop the walnuts.

  4. Place all vegetables in a large bowl.

  5. Shave Parmesan into strips and set aside.

  6. Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper together in a small bowl.

  7. Pour dressing over salad and toss.

  8. When serving add a few shavings of Parmesan and Fennel tops.

Cook's notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer to get paper-thin fennel shavings for the best texture.
  • Soak your shaved fennel in a bowl of ice water for 10 minutes before dressing to make it extra crisp.
  • Don't throw away the fennel fronds; chop them up and use them as a fresh, herb-like garnish.
  • Massage the dressing into the fennel slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Easy swaps

  • Swap apples for thinly sliced Bosc pears for a slightly softer texture.
  • Replace walnuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.
  • Use blood orange juice instead of lemon for a sweeter, more vibrant dressing profile.
  • Add baby arugula or mixed greens to turn this side dish into a more substantial salad.

Frequently asked

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients separately. Keep the apples and fennel in an airtight container and whisk the dressing in a jar. Toss everything together just before serving to maintain the crunch.

Is this Apple Fennel Salad healthy?

Absolutely. This recipe is naturally vegan, low in cholesterol, and packed with fiber from the fresh fennel and apples, making it a great light lunch or snack option.

How do I keep the apples from turning brown?

The acidity in the citrus-based vinaigrette will help prevent the apples from oxidizing. Be sure to toss the sliced apples in the dressing immediately after cutting.

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