Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish to brighten up your next meal? Look no further! This fennel slaw recipe is a game-changer. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a delightful crunch and fresh flavor that perfectly complements grilled meats, fish, or even a hearty sandwich. Forget boring salads; this vibrant slaw is your new go-to for adding a burst of freshness and healthy goodness to your table. This recipe offers easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Fennel: Start by trimming the fennel bulb. Remove the tough outer layers and thinly slice the bulb using a mandoline or sharp knife. Aim for consistent thin slices for even cooking and texture.
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Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced fennel, shredded red cabbage, parsley, and dill. Don't overmix; you want to retain some of the vegetables’ vibrant colors and textures.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
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Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
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Add Toppings (Optional): If using, gently fold in the toasted slivered almonds. Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and gives them a pleasant crunch.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step also helps the fennel soften slightly, making it even more enjoyable. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Fennel Slaw:
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Choose Fresh Fennel: The flavor of your slaw heavily relies on the quality of the fennel. Select a firm, aromatic fennel bulb with bright green fronds.
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Thinly Slice the Fennel: Thin slices ensure even cooking and prevent the fennel from becoming tough.
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Don't Overmix: Gently toss the slaw to prevent bruising the vegetables and maintain their vibrant colors.
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Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of dressing to your liking. Some people prefer a more vibrant dressing, while others prefer a lighter one.
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Make it Ahead: This slaw is even better the next day! The flavors have more time to develop, making it a perfect make-ahead side dish for parties or potlucks.
Variations:
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Add Some Heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or include some finely chopped jalapeño peppers in the slaw.
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Citrus Twist: Substitute orange juice or grapefruit juice for some of the apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
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Add Protein: To make this a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the slaw.
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Other Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like shredded carrots, kohlrabi, or even thinly sliced bell peppers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This delicious and healthy fennel slaw is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!