usually I make this fennel salad in the fall or winter but you can enjoy it all year around.
I usually make this fennel salad in the fall or winter but you can enjoy it all year around. I marinate fennel in lemon juice which balances out its sweetness and anise flavor very nicely. And the sweetness of the pear combined with the acidity of the lemon creates a beautiful dance of flavors.
Health Benefits of Fennel
Fennel has a unique combination of micronutrients that are very beneficial for our health. For instance, the flavonoids ruin and quercitin together with vitamin C are powerful antioxidants. And their job is to neutralize free radicals and protect the body from too much oxidation. As a result, fennel, like many other plants, is a great anti-inflammatory food. In addition, fennel contains anethol – the volatile oil that gives fennel its distinct aroma. Volatile oils are very active chemicals and anethol is not an exclusion. It interacts with the immune system and has an anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effect.
Health Benefits Of Pears
Pears also contain a range of nutrients that really good for our health. And yes, they also provide us with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer protection. In addition, they might be helpful for reducing the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Fennel Salad With Pear and Avocado
Ingredients:
1 fennel bulb
Juice of 1/2-1 lemon
1 pear
2 handful lettuce leaves
1 avocado
1/4 cup pecans or walnuts
Salad dressing
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cut off the green part of fennel bulb, then cut the bulb in half lengthwise. Slice thinly and place in a bowl.
- Squeeze lemon juice using this lemon press. Mix in with the sliced fennel.
- Cut pear into quarters, core them and slice, then add to the bowl.
- Add lettuce, followed by peeled and sliced avocado.
- Add pecans, salt, black pepper and dressing.
- Mix well to coat the salad with the dressing and serve!