Fennel, Mushroom & Parmesan Salad
Description
This elegant Fennel, Mushroom & Parmesan Salad balances earthy, savory notes with bright citrus acidity. The mushrooms are thinly sliced and marinated in a robust vinaigrette made from crushed garlic, coarse sea salt, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil, allowing them to absorb deep flavors while staying tender. The star of the dish is the raw fennel bulb, shaved paper-thin to reveal its crisp, anise-like sweetness, which cuts through the richness of the shaved Parmesan Reggiano. Finished with fresh fennel greens and parsley, this salad offers a delightful contrast of textures&# 226;ÂÂcreamy mushrooms, crunchy vegetables, and salty cheese. It is perfect as a light lunch, a refreshing side to grilled meats, or a vibrant starter for an Italian-inspired dinner party.Ingredients
Directions
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Crush the garlic clove and coarse sea salt together in a mortar or with the flat side of a knife until a smooth paste forms.
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Stir in the lemon juice, minced lemon peel strips, fennel seeds, and extra-virgin olive oil to create a tart, lemony vinaigrette.
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Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp cloth, then thinly slice them.
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Place the sliced mushrooms in a bowl and dress with a few tablespoons of the vinaigrette, seasoning generously with freshly ground black pepper.
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Cover the mushrooms with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them marinate at room temperature for 1 hour to soften and absorb flavor.
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Meanwhile, trim the fennel bulb, cutting it into quarters and removing most of the tough core.
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Slice the fennel quarters lengthwise into very thin strips, keeping the base intact if possible to keep pieces joined.
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Toss the shaved fennel with most of the remaining vinaigrette, half of the chopped fennel greens, half of the chopped parsley, and salt and pepper to taste.
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Add the remaining chopped herbs to the marinated mushrooms and toss gently.
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To serve, layer the fennel, marinated mushrooms, and shaved Parmesan Reggiano on each plate.
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Spoon the remaining vinaigrette over the top and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 4.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1219.0mg51%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.9g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
- Sugars 0.2g
- Protein 0.1g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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