Citrus and Arugula Salad with Fennel and Marcona Almonds
This Citrus and Arugula Salad with Fennel and Marcona Almonds is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines zesty citrus, peppery arugula, and the earthy sweetness of fennel, all topped with buttery Marcona almonds and briny kalamata olives. It’s a perfect light lunch or elegant side dish full of flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Light Meal
- Method: Mixing, Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ teaspoon fennel seed, lightly crushed
Zest from 1 orange
4 mixed oranges (such as navel, blood, or cara cara oranges)
1 medium bulb of fennel, halved and very thinly sliced
½ cup red onion, halved and thinly sliced
8 cups arugula
⅓ cup Marcona almonds, roughly chopped
8 kalamata olives, chopped
¼ cup sherry vinegar
Instructions
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Prepare the citrus: Peel the mixed oranges and cut them into segments, removing any seeds. Set aside the citrus segments and squeeze the remaining membranes over a bowl to capture any juices for the dressing.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fennel seed, orange zest, sherry vinegar, and the reserved orange juice. Whisk everything together until the dressing is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the fennel bulb and red onion. Set aside with the arugula.
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Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, fennel slices, red onion, and citrus segments. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
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Top with almonds and olives: Sprinkle the chopped Marcona almonds and kalamata olives over the top of the salad.
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Serve: Serve immediately, or chill the salad in the fridge for 10-15 minutes for a refreshing, cool option.
Notes
Citrus variations: Mix and match different citrus fruits depending on what’s in season. Try adding grapefruit or lemon for an extra burst of flavor.
Nut alternatives: If Marcona almonds are unavailable, slivered almonds, toasted pine nuts, or chopped walnuts can be used.
Cheese addition: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a creamy contrast to the crisp salad ingredients.
