Description
A refreshing and crisp Asian Pear and Fennel Salad combining thinly sliced fennel and Asian pear with peppery arugula, pomegranate seeds, and crunchy pistachios, all tossed in a tangy lemon-tamari dressing. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish, this salad is quick to prepare and packed with bright flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon tamari soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salad
- 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced (preferably using a mandolin)
- 1 Asian pear, cored and thinly sliced
- 1½ cups baby arugula leaves (or any salad leaf mix)
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds
- 3 tablespoons shelled pistachios, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, tamari soy sauce, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced fennel, Asian pear slices, and baby arugula. Drizzle about three-quarters of the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more dressing, salt, or pepper as preferred.
- Plate the salad: Transfer the dressed salad onto serving plates or a single large platter, spreading it evenly.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and crushed pistachios over the top of the salad for bursts of sweetness and crunch.
- Optional garnish: Add some fennel fronds (the delicate feathery leaves) on top as a fresh and aromatic garnish to complete the dish.
Notes
- Use a mandolin for evenly thin slices of fennel and pear, which enhances texture and presentation.
- This salad is best served immediately to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
- The tamari soy sauce can be substituted with regular soy sauce if tamari is unavailable, but adjust salt accordingly.
- For a nut-free version, omit pistachios or substitute with toasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Add fennel fronds only just before serving to prevent wilting.
