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Shaved-Fennel Salad with Oranges and Pecorino

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

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This fennel and orange salad with Pecorino is a vibrant celebration of crisp textures and bold, zesty flavours. The aniseed notes of the paper-thin fennel bulbs provide a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet acidity of the oranges. A rich, jewel-toned pomegranate reduction adds a sophisticated depth of flavour, perfectly balancing the salty tang of the aged Italian cheese.

As a light vegetarian starter or a sophisticated side dish, this recipe is remarkably simple to assemble yet looks elegant on any dinner table. High in vitamin C and naturally gluten-free, it makes a healthy addition to a weekend lunch or a refreshing accompaniment to grilled fish. Serve it immediately to ensure the fennel remains perfectly crisp and the citrus notes stay bright.

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Ingredients for Shaved-Fennel Salad with Oranges and Pecorino

  • 180ml bottled pomegranate juice

  • 2 medium fennel bulbs (675g total), stalks cut off

  • 2 navel oranges

  • 45ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 80ml coarsely grated Pecorino Romano

  • Equipment: an adjustable-blade slicer

How to make Shaved-Fennel Salad with Oranges and Pecorino

Boil pomegranate juice in a small heavy saucepan until reduced to about 60ml , about 6 minutes.

Transfer to a small bowl or measuring cup and quick-chill in an ice bath.

Meanwhile, cut fennel into paper-thin slices with slicer. Cut peel, including all white pith, from oranges. Cut segments free from membranes and coarsely chop.

Whisk 1/2 teaspoons salt into pomegranate juice, then whisk in oil.

Arrange fennel and oranges on salad plates or put in a large salad bowl. Sprinkle with cheese and drizzle with dressing. Season with 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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