Citrus Fennel Salad with Pomegranate

Name: Citrus Fennel Salad with Pomegranate
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced; 2 oranges, segmented; 1 grapefruit, segmented; 1 cup pomegranate seeds; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I often find myself craving vibrant flavors and refreshing textures in my salads, and this Citrus Fennel Salad with Pomegranate has become a favorite. The combination of crisp fennel, juicy citrus, and crunchy pomegranate seeds creates a symphony of taste that is both refreshing and satisfying. It's a beautiful dish that not only looks stunning on the table but also brings a burst of brightness to any meal. Plus, it's incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:34:07.566Z

When I first tried this Citrus Fennel Salad, I was blown away by how the sweet acidity of the citrus complemented the anise flavor of the fennel. I tweaked it a bit by adding some roasted nuts for a bit of crunch and found that it elevated the dish even further. The beautiful colors make it perfect for sharing with friends and family, and it’s a great way to showcase seasonal produce.

I love preparing this salad in advance when hosting dinner parties. The flavors meld and improve as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead option. Just be sure to add the pomegranate seeds just before serving to keep them vibrant and juicy!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing flavors that awaken the palate
Crisp textures contrasted with juicy pomegranate seeds
A stunning presentation that impresses at any gathering

      

Enhancing Flavor with Citrus

The vibrant citrus in this salad not only adds flavor but also balances the anise notes from the fennel. When preparing the oranges and grapefruit, take care to segment them properly. This technique releases the juicy sacs while keeping the membranes intact, creating beautiful bites of citrus. I recommend using a sharp knife to ensure clean, precise cuts. If you find yourself short on oranges or grapefruit, consider other citrus like tangerines or Blood oranges for a unique twist.

Fresh citrus also brings acidity to the dish, which is crucial for cutting through the richness of any heavier main dishes you serve. For an extra flavor boost, I sometimes zest the citrus before segmenting it. This adds an aromatic quality that enhances the overall profile of the salad. Remember to combine both sweet and slightly tart varieties of citrus to achieve a well-rounded flavor dynamic that will excite your taste buds.

The Role of Fennel

Fennel is the star ingredient of this salad, contributing a crunch that's unparalleled. Its distinct flavor profile complements the sweetness of the citrus and the tartness of the pomegranate seeds. When slicing fennel, be sure to cut it thinly—about 1/8 inch thick—to ensure the texture is delicate and inviting. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the sliced fennel in cold water for about 10 minutes, which softens its licorice notes.

Additionally, fennel fronds can be used as a garnish, adding a splash of color and aroma. If you're unable to find fresh fennel, celery can serve as a substitute, providing a similar crunch. However, be aware that the flavor profile will shift, as celery lacks the anise undertone inherent in fennel. Keep this in mind when developing your own variations.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Citrus Fennel Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance for easier assembly. I recommend slicing the fennel and pre-segmenting the citrus up to a few hours before serving. Just keep each component in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their textures. The pomegranate seeds should ideally be added right before serving, as they can lose their crunch if mixed too early in advance.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a day or two. However, keep in mind that the fennel may soften, and the citrus juices will blend more with the other ingredients. To rejuvenate the salad, consider adding another drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh mint just before serving, restoring some vibrancy and freshness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and colorful ingredients:

Ingredients

1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced
2 oranges, segmented
1 grapefruit, segmented
1 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Fennel

Trim the fennel bulb and cut it in half. Remove the core, then slice it thinly. Place the fennel in a large bowl.

Segment the Citrus

Using a sharp knife, cut the peels off the oranges and grapefruit. Segment them by cutting between the membranes and add the segments to the bowl with fennel.

Add Pomegranate and Mint

Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and chopped mint leaves over the fennel and citrus.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Let it sit for a few minutes to meld flavors, then serve chilled or at room temperature.

This salad can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some crumbled feta cheese or toasted walnuts to the salad.

Variations to Try

This salad is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous variations based on seasonal ingredients or personal preference. For instance, you might experiment with adding sliced avocado for creaminess, or incorporate roasted nuts for a delightful crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing it with grilled shrimp or sliced chicken, transforming it into a heartier meal. Additionally, you can substitute the mint with fresh basil or cilantro to shift the flavor profile depending on the rest of your menu.

For a winter twist, consider substituting the citrus fruits with seasonal fruits like apple or pear. This will create a different yet equally vibrant flavor profile, while still maintaining the fresh crunch that defines this salad. Don't shy away from adjusting the dressing as well; a touch of honey or maple syrup can enhance the sweetness if you use tart fruits.

Essential Tools

While this salad comes together with minimal tools, a good chef's knife is essential for slicing the fennel and segmenting the citrus. Opt for a serrated knife for the citrus, as it will glide through the tough skin more easily. A bamboo cutting board provides a safe and stable surface while also being gentle on your knife's edge. If you're making this salad for a large crowd, consider using a salad spinner to prepare the fennel, ensuring it's evenly sliced and ready for mixing.

Lastly, having a mixing bowl large enough to accommodate all ingredients is important for evenly distributing the dressing without mashing the delicate fennel and citrus. Using a wooden or silicone spatula will help toss the salad gently while preserving the textures of the ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just add the pomegranate seeds right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for fennel?

You can use cucumber or celery for a different crunch, though it will change the flavor profile.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great option for vegans.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, but the salad is best fresh.