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Shaved Honeydew, Fennel, and Olive Salad

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This shaved honeydew, fennel and olive salad is a sophisticated vegan starter that plays with contrasting flavours and textures. The natural sweetness of the ripe melon provides a beautiful backdrop for the aniseed notes of the crisp fennel and the buttery saltiness of the green olives. It is a vibrant, colourful dish that works particularly well as a refreshing palate cleanser or a light lunch during the warmer summer months.

Quick to assemble using a mandoline, this elegant salad relies on high-quality ingredients to shine. Using Castelvetrano olives adds a mild, nutty dimension that complements the bright citrus dressing perfectly. Serve it as a stand-alone light meal or as a unique side dish alongside grilled vegetables or sourdough bread for a healthy, plant-based feast that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

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Ingredients for Shaved Honeydew, Fennel, and Olive Salad

  • 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest

  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 675g honeydew melon, rind and seeds removed, shaved on a mandoline

  • 1/2 fennel bulb, shaved on a mandoline, plus 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fennel fronds

  • 60ml brined green olives, such as Castelvetrano, pitted, very coarsely chopped

How to make Shaved Honeydew, Fennel, and Olive Salad

Whisk orange juice, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons oil in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper. Add melon, shaved fennel, and olives to vinaigrette and toss to coat.

Top salad with orange zest and fennel fronds, drizzle with more oil, and season with salt and pepper.

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.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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