| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 10g | 1.5g | 27g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 5g | 2g | 0.02g |
Inspired by the simplicity of the plains and the richness of farm-fresh ingredients, the Lovage and Fennel Salad encapsulates the vibrant essence of summer in the heartland. As a proud Nebraskan, the joy I derive from sharing this recipe is deeply rooted in my Midwestern upbringing. It showcases the ripe fruits of the season paired with robust, earthy greens, a combination that sings with wholesome goodness.
Nutritional Value of the Lovage and Fennel Salad
Beyond the flavorful punch this salad brings, the Lovage and Fennel Salad provides an array of wellness benefits. The fennel bulbs, a plentiful item in Midwest markets during their peak season, are known for aiding digestion while adding virtually no calories to the meal. Meanwhile, lovage leaves, with their bright, crisp flavor, bring a robust dose of vitamins A and C to the table. Citrus fruits, too, are powerful players in this nutritional kaleidoscope, offering a high level of immune-boosting Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Complementary Combinations
This fruit-based salad bears a striking kinship with the quintessential fruit medleys of the Midwest. However, its distinct brightness, enhanced by the sharp tang of the vinegar, creates an almost Mediterranean feel that pleasantly contrasts the subtle sweetness of the fruit and fennel. Undoubtedly, this salad stands firm as a meal on its own. Yet, it pairs beautifully with simple grilled fish recipes or hearty Midwest dishes like roasted chicken or Nebraska beef stews, inserting a vibrant counterpart to the comforting warmth of these dishes.
In conclusion, my love for the Lovage and Fennel Salad recipe stems from its uncanny ability to mirror the wholesome ethos that permeates the heartland. It echoes my own journey from a young boy in Nebraska, learning to cook simple meals from farm-sourced ingredients, to the culinary enthusiast I am today. This salad, much like the Midwestern soil, is nurturing, laden with simple, robust flavors and brimming with nutritional goodness, bringing the spirit of the plains, from my kitchen to yours.
What You’ll Need
- 2 medium fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of lovage leaves, coarsely chopped
- 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1 large grapefruit, peeled and segmented
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fennel fronds for garnish
Method
Step One
Start by preparing your ingredients: thinly slice both the fennel bulbs and the red onion. Peel and segment the oranges and the grapefruit. Coarsely chop the lovage leaves. Set these all aside for later.
Step Two
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced fennel bulbs, chopped lovage leaves, segmented oranges and grapefruit, and thinly sliced red onion.
Step Three
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and the white wine vinegar. Season this dressing with salt and pepper to your taste.
Step Four
Drizzle the olive oil and vinegar dressing over the salad in the large bowl. Toss all the ingredients together until they are well-mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
Step Five
Before serving, garnish the salad with some fennel fronds. Serve this fresh and citrusy Lovage and Fennel Salad as a refreshing side or light main dish. Enjoy!
