Forget limp lettuce and boring salads! This Grilled Fennel & Feta Salad is a vibrant explosion of flavor and texture that will redefine your summer meal. Sweet, smoky grilled fennel takes center stage, its anise notes beautifully complemented by salty feta cheese, juicy oranges, and a bright, herbaceous dressing. The slight char on the fennel adds a depth of flavor you won't find in raw versions, making this salad a truly unforgettable experience. It's the perfect side dish for grilled meats or a light yet satisfying vegetarian meal.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to assemble, requiring minimal prep time and ingredients readily available at your local grocery store. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this delicious and impressive Grilled Fennel & Feta Salad.
Tools Needed
- Grill pan (or flat pan)
- Oven
Ingredients
- Fennel
- Feta cheese
- Red or green grapes
- Parsley: a little bit
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Grill the Fennel
- Cut the fennel, leaving some of the root stem attached to each piece to keep the leaves intact during grilling and roasting. (Cut right down the center)
- Drizzle the fennel pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the fennel in a grill pan for about 1.5 minutes per side, until you get nice grill marks.
Step 2. Roast Fennel and Grapes
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Place the fennel (along with some whole and halved grapes) in the oven and roast for 8-10 minutes.
Step 3. Assemble the Salad
- Let the fennel cool slightly. Arrange the roasted fennel on a plate.
- Add the roasted grapes, feta cheese, chopped parsley, olive oil, and fresh cracked pepper to the salad.
Read more: Classic Beef Spiedini: Italian-Style Kebabs Recipe
Tips
- Leaving the root stem attached to the fennel pieces helps keep them together during cooking.
- The salad is best enjoyed warm or cool, rather than piping hot.
- This salad pairs well with lamb or steak.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes! Goat cheese, halloumi, or even a creamy ricotta would be delicious substitutes. Choose a cheese that complements the fennel's anise flavor.
2. How can I prevent the fennel from becoming too bitter?
Grilling the fennel mellows its bitterness. If you're concerned, trim the tough outer layer and core before grilling. A good drizzle of olive oil also helps.
3. What can I add to the salad to make it heartier?
Toasted pine nuts, Kalamata olives, or some cooked chickpeas would add extra texture and flavor. You could also add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
This Grilled Fennel & Feta Salad is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated through a little grilling and thoughtful pairing. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, smoky, salty, and bright – your taste buds will thank you!