Fresh Fennel and Apple Salad Recipe with Pecorino Cheese

There’s something magical about the crunch and brightness of a fresh shaved fennel and apple salad with Pecorino cheese. It’s light yet satisfying, simple yet sophisticated, and honestly, the perfect recipe for those days when you want to feel fancy without the fuss. The crisp sweetness of apples paired with the earthy, almost licorice-like flavor of fennel is a match made in heaven. Toss in the sharp saltiness of Pecorino and a zippy vinaigrette, and you’ve got yourself a salad that’s worthy of center stage.

I first discovered this combo during a little backyard dinner party a couple of years ago. A friend brought a fennel and apple salad, and I’ll admit—I was skeptical at first. But after one bite, I was hooked. Since then, I’ve been tweaking and perfecting my own version, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen. I love how it feels refreshing yet indulgent, plus it’s versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a side for holiday feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why this shaved fennel and apple salad with Pecorino has earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation:

• Quick & Easy: You can whip this up in less than 20 minutes, and most of that time is just slicing.
• Simple Ingredients: No special trips to exotic markets—everything is readily available at your local grocery store.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch or a fancy dinner party, this salad fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The unique flavor combo always gets rave reviews, even from skeptics.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The balance of crisp apples, crunchy fennel, and salty Pecorino is pure bliss.

What sets this salad apart is the harmony of flavors and textures. The fennel adds a refreshing crunch, the apples bring a touch of sweetness, and the Pecorino cheese delivers a bold, savory punch. It’s all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette that’s just the right amount of zing without overpowering the delicate ingredients.

This salad isn’t just a side—it’s an experience. The kind of dish you’ll want to savor slowly, bite by bite, and then wonder why you didn’t make a bigger batch!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses fresh, simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh fennel bulbs: Thinly shaved for maximum crunch and that signature licorice-like flavor.
• Sweet apples: Firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady work best (adds a perfect balance of sweetness).
• Pecorino cheese: Shaved into thin ribbons or grated for a salty, nutty kick.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed to keep the apples from browning and add brightness.
• Olive oil: Go for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Honey: Just a touch for subtle sweetness in the dressing.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy depth to the vinaigrette.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning—simple but essential.

Optional additions include fresh parsley or mint for an herbaceous note, or toasted nuts like walnuts for extra crunch. Feel free to get creative!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make this salad, but here’s what’s handy:

• Mandoline slicer: Perfect for shaving fennel and apples uniformly thin.
• Sharp knife: If you don’t have a mandoline, a good knife works just fine.
• Cutting board: For prepping all your ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: To toss everything together.
• Whisk: For blending the vinaigrette.

If you don’t own a mandoline, don’t worry—just slice everything as thinly as possible with a knife. And if you’re a fan of kitchen gadgets, investing in a mandoline can be a game-changer for salads like this.

Preparation Method

1. Prep the fennel: Trim off the stalks and fronds of your fennel bulb, saving some fronds for garnish if desired. Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to shave the bulb into thin slices.
2. Slice the apples: Core your apples and shave them into thin slices, similar to the fennel. Toss the slices with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the fennel and apple slices with the vinaigrette until coated evenly.
5. Add Pecorino: Shave Pecorino cheese over the top of the salad using a vegetable peeler or grate it if you prefer smaller pieces.
6. Optional garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley, mint, or fennel fronds and toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
7. Serve: Plate the salad beautifully and serve immediately for the best crunch and freshness.

Pro tip: If you’re making this for a crowd, prepare the fennel and apples ahead of time but wait to dress the salad until just before serving to keep everything crisp.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to make this salad absolutely perfect:

• Choose the right apples: Avoid overly soft or mealy varieties. Firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice: It keeps the apples looking vibrant and adds brightness to the salad.
• Shave thinly: The thinner the fennel and apple slices, the better the texture and flavor combination.
• Balance the vinaigrette: Taste as you go. If it’s too tangy, add a touch more honey; if it’s too sweet, add a splash more lemon juice.
• Use fresh Pecorino: Avoid pre-shredded cheese—it won’t have the same bold flavor and texture.

And here’s a little secret: If you’re new to fennel, try soaking the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before using. It mellows the flavor and makes it even crisper!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to adapt this recipe:

• Dietary adaptations: Swap Pecorino for vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
• Seasonal twist: Use pears instead of apples in the fall or add pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
• Flavor boost: Toss in some blue cheese crumbles or add a handful of arugula for a peppery kick.
• Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios for added texture.
• Herbaceous notes: Fresh basil or tarragon can bring a whole new dimension to the salad.

I once tried adding thinly sliced radishes to this salad, and it was fantastic. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This salad is best served fresh and chilled. Here’s how to enjoy and store it:

• Serving temperature: Serve immediately after tossing for maximum crunch.
• Presentation: Plate it in a wide, shallow bowl to show off the beautiful layers of fennel, apple, and Pecorino.
• Pairings: This salad pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or crusty bread.
• Storage: Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Dress it right before serving.
• Reheating: Not applicable here—this salad is meant to be enjoyed cold!

If you do have leftovers, the flavors deepen overnight, but the texture may soften slightly.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This shaved fennel and apple salad isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutritional goodness:

• Low-calorie: This salad is light and refreshing, perfect for a healthy meal or side dish.
• Rich in fiber: Fennel and apples are great sources of dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
• High in vitamins: Fennel is loaded with vitamin C and potassium, while apples provide antioxidants.
• Healthy fats: Olive oil brings heart-healthy fats into the mix.

Plus, Pecorino cheese adds a dose of protein and calcium, making this salad not just delicious but also nourishing.

Conclusion

If you’ve been looking for a salad that’s fresh, easy, and a little bit fancy, this shaved fennel and apple salad with Pecorino is your answer. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but comes together in no time. I love how customizable it is, and I can’t wait for you to make it your own.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below or share your version of the salad on social media—I’d love to see your creations. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the fennel and apples ahead of time, but wait to dress the salad until just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

What’s the best way to shave fennel and apples?

A mandoline slicer works best, but a sharp knife will do if you don’t have one. Aim for thin, uniform slices.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Parmesan or even Manchego can work well as substitutes for Pecorino.

How do I store leftovers?

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Dress it right before serving.

What can I add for extra crunch?

Toasted nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts are great options for added texture.

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