This salad features thinly sliced fennel bulbs and juicy mandarin segments layered together to create a vibrant texture and flavor contrast. Burrata cheese is added at the end to introduce a creamy richness, resulting in a refreshing and visually appealing dish with crisp, tender, and luscious elements.

Ingredients

For the dressing

• 2 fennel bulbs preferably firm and fresh
• 3 mandarins peeled and segmented
• 200 g burrata cheese preferably at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin preferred
• To taste salt preferably flaky sea salt
• To taste black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

• Start by thinly slicing the fennel bulbs crosswise with a sharp knife, aiming for almost translucent, delicate slices. Place the fennel slices into a large mixing bowl to prepare for assembly.
• Gently peel the mandarins and cut them into thin slices, removing any membranes. Add the segments to the bowl with the fennel slices.
• Drizzle the olive oil over the fennel and mandarins, then sprinkle with a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything gently to coat the ingredients without breaking up the segments.
• Transfer the salad mixture onto a serving platter or individual plates, creating an even layer that showcases the colorful segments and crisp fennel slices.
• Finish the presentation with a light drizzle of extra olive oil, an optional pinch of sea salt, and a few extra black pepper grounds for flavor. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding thinly sliced fennel fronds or a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Recipe from The Flourishing Abode