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Fennel and Endive Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This vibrant fennel and endive salad with orange vinaigrette is a refreshing vegan dish that celebrates crisp textures and bright, citrusy notes. The natural aniseed flavour of the fennel pairs beautifully with the slight bitterness of the Belgian endive, create a sophisticated balance that is heightened by the zesty orange dressing. It is a wonderful choice for those seeking a light, homemade starter that looks elegant but requires minimal preparation time.

Ideal for a summer lunch or as a palate-cleansing side for a richer main course, this healthy salad is naturally gluten-free and packed with fresh ingredients. By chilling the vegetables in the vinaigrette for a short time, you allow the sharp vinegar and sweet orange to mellow the crunch, resulting in a perfectly dressed salad. Serve it immediately to enjoy the contrast of the seasonal vegetables.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Fennel and Endive Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

  • 1 navel orange

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar

  • 1/4 teaspoons salt, or to taste

  • 1/4 teaspoons black pepper

  • 45ml olive oil

  • 2 medium fennel bulbs (sometimes called anise

  • 900g total), stalks discarded

  • 2 Belgian endives, trimmed

  • a Japanese Benriner* or other adjustable-blade slicer

How to make Fennel and Endive Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Finely grate enough zest from orange to measure 2 teaspoons , then squeeze 1 tablespoon juice into a large bowl. Whisk in zest, vinegar, salt, pepper, and oil until combined well.

Cut fennel bulbs lengthwise into very thin slices with slicer. Halve endives lengthwise, then halve crosswise and cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch-wide strips. Add endive and fennel to vinaigrette and toss to combine. Chill, covered, 15 minutes to allow flavours to develop.

*Available at cookware shops and Uwajimaya (800-889-1928).

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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