Slaws

Fennel And Orange Slaw

Name: Fennel And Orange Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 large bulbs of fennel, trimmed and thinly sliced; 4 oranges, peeled and segmented; 1 large red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup of pecans, chopped; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon of honey; 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

By Tessa Thornbury · June 19, 2026 · Slaws

Prep20 min

Cook0 min

Total40 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I tasted a slaw made with fresh fennel and oranges. It was at a local farmer's market, and the combination of crunchy fennel, sweet oranges, and tangy dressing was love at first bite. As a home cook, I've always been drawn to seasonal recipes that let the freshest ingredients shine, and this Fennel And Orange Slaw is a perfect example.

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make and how versatile it is. You can serve it as a side dish, add it to sandwiches or salads, or even use it as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. The key is to use the freshest ingredients you can find and to not overdress the slaw, so the flavors and textures can shine through.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of fresh fennel, oranges, red onion, and parsley, all tied together with a zesty dressing made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of honey. We'll also be adding some crunchy pecans for texture and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.

This Fennel And Orange Slaw is perfect for spring and summer, when fresh fennel and oranges are at their peak season. It's also a great recipe for potlucks, picnics, or backyard barbecues, as it's easy to make in large quantities and can be served at room temperature.

So, if you're looking for a new side dish to add to your repertoire, or just want to try something fresh and exciting, give this Fennel And Orange Slaw recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Fennel And Orange Slaw recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
It's perfect for spring and summer, when fresh fennel and oranges are at their peak season.
The slaw is versatile and can be served as a side dish, added to sandwiches or salads, or used as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.
The combination of crunchy textures and tangy flavors makes it a great addition to any meal.
It's a great recipe for potlucks, picnics, or backyard barbecues, as it's easy to make in large quantities and can be served at room temperature.
The slaw is healthy and nutritious, making it a great option for those looking for a lighter side dish.

Why This Recipe Works

This Fennel And Orange Slaw recipe works because of the combination of crunchy textures and tangy flavors. The fresh fennel and red onion provide a nice crunch, while the oranges add natural sweetness. The dressing, made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey, brings everything together and adds a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

The key to this recipe is to not overdress the slaw, so the flavors and textures can shine through. You want to be able to taste each ingredient individually, rather than having them all mixed together in a soggy mess. By dressing the slaw just before serving, you can ensure that it stays crunchy and fresh.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of fresh and high-quality ingredients. Fresh fennel, oranges, and parsley make all the difference in the world, and using the best ingredients you can find will result in a slaw that's not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Fennel And Orange Slaw, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including fresh fennel, oranges, red onion, parsley, and a few pantry staples. Be sure to choose the freshest ingredients you can find, as they'll make all the difference in the flavor and texture of the slaw.

When shopping for fennel, look for bulbs that are firm and have a nice fragrance. You'll also want to choose oranges that are heavy for their size and have a sweet aroma. Red onion and parsley are easy to find in most supermarkets, and you can use any type of parsley you like, including curly or flat-leaf.

2 large bulbs of fennel, trimmed and thinly slicedFresh fennel is essential for this recipe, so be sure to choose bulbs that are firm and have a nice fragrance. You can also use baby fennel if you prefer a milder flavor.
4 oranges, peeled and segmentedChoose oranges that are heavy for their size and have a sweet aroma. You can use any type of orange you like, including navel, blood, or Valencia.
1 large red onion, thinly slicedRed onion adds a sweet and crunchy texture to the slaw, but you can also use yellow or white onion if you prefer.
1/4 cup of fresh parsley, choppedParsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the slaw, but you can also use other herbs like dill or basil if you prefer.
1/2 cup of pecans, choppedPecans add a nice crunch to the slaw, but you can also use other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
2 tablespoons of olive oilOlive oil is used to make the dressing, so be sure to choose a high-quality oil with a good flavor.
2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar adds a tangy flavor to the dressing, but you can also use other types of vinegar like balsamic or white wine if you prefer.
1 tablespoon of honeyHoney adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing, but you can also use other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer.
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustardDijon mustard adds a tangy flavor to the dressing, but you can also use other types of mustard like whole-grain or yellow mustard if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are used to season the slaw, so be sure to taste and adjust as needed.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlCutting boardSharp knifeMeasuring cups and spoonsWhiskInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Fennel And Orange Slaw

1
Start by preparing the fennel, oranges, and red onion. Trim the fennel bulbs and slice them thinly, making sure to remove any tough or fibrous parts. Peel the oranges and segment them, making sure to remove any seeds or membranes. Slice the red onion thinly, making sure to separate the rings.
2
In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel, oranges, and red onion. Make sure to toss the ingredients gently, so they're evenly distributed.
3
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4
Pour the dressing over the fennel mixture and toss gently to combine. Make sure the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing, but not overdressed.
5
Sprinkle the chopped parsley and pecans over the top of the slaw and toss gently to combine.
6
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes, so the flavors can meld together.
7
Just before serving, give the slaw a good toss and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can serve the slaw chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
8
To serve, spoon the slaw into a serving dish or individual bowls. You can garnish with additional parsley or pecans, if desired.
9
Serve the slaw alongside your favorite dishes, such as grilled meats, sandwiches, or salads. It's also a great addition to potlucks, picnics, or backyard barbecues.
10
Store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also make the slaw ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best served fresh.

Expert Tips

Make sure to choose fresh and high-quality ingredients, as they'll make all the difference in the flavor and texture of the slaw.
Don't overdress the slaw, as it can become soggy and unappetizing. Instead, dress it just before serving, so the flavors and textures can shine through.
Use a variety of ingredients to add texture and interest to the slaw. The crunchy pecans and fresh parsley add a nice contrast to the soft fennel and oranges.
Experiment with different types of citrus, such as lemons or limes, to add a unique flavor to the slaw.
Add some heat to the slaw by incorporating diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
Make the slaw ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's a great make-ahead dish for parties or gatherings.
Serve the slaw as a side dish or use it as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or salads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overdressing the slaw, which can make it soggy and unappetizing.
Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the slaw.
Not refrigerating the slaw for at least 30 minutes, which can prevent the flavors from melding together.
Not adjusting the seasoning as needed, which can result in a slaw that's too salty or too sweet.
Not using the right type of citrus, which can affect the flavor of the slaw.
Not adding enough texture and interest to the slaw, which can make it boring and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced apples or grapes to the slaw for extra sweetness and texture.
Use different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to add crunch and flavor.
Incorporate some diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
Add some heat to the slaw by incorporating diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
Use different types of citrus, such as lemons or limes, to add a unique flavor to the slaw.
Make the slaw with different types of greens, such as kale or spinach, for a nutritious and filling side dish.

What to Serve With Fennel And Orange Slaw

This Fennel And Orange Slaw is a versatile side dish that can be served alongside a variety of dishes. It's a great addition to grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, and it's also delicious with fish or seafood. You can also serve it as a topping for tacos or salads, or use it as a side dish for sandwiches or wraps.

Some other ideas for serving the slaw include:

Serving it alongside a charcuterie board or cheese plate.

Using it as a topping for soups or stews.

Serving it as a side dish for breakfast or brunch, alongside dishes like eggs or pancakes.

Grilled chicken or steakFish or seafoodTacos or saladsSandwiches or wrapsCharcuterie board or cheese plateSoups or stews

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Fennel And Orange Slaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It's best served fresh, but it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To freeze the slaw, simply spoon it into an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

When reheating the slaw, make sure to stir it gently and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become soggy and unappetizing.

Some tips for storing and reheating the slaw include:

Using airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the slaw.

Stirring the slaw gently when reheating it, to prevent it from becoming soggy or unappetizing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fennel should I use for this recipe?

You can use either bulb or baby fennel for this recipe, depending on your personal preference. Bulb fennel is a bit more crunchy and has a stronger flavor, while baby fennel is milder and more tender.

Can I use other types of citrus instead of oranges?

Yes, you can use other types of citrus, such as lemons or limes, to add a unique flavor to the slaw. Just be sure to adjust the amount of juice and zest according to the type of citrus you're using.

How long can I store the slaw in the refrigerator?

You can store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It's best served fresh, but it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I freeze the slaw?

Yes, you can freeze the slaw in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature and adjust the seasoning as needed.

What's the best way to reheat the slaw?

You can reheat the slaw in the microwave or on the stovetop, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become soggy and unappetizing. Stir it gently and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the slaw ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's best served fresh, but it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

What's the best way to serve the slaw?

You can serve the slaw as a side dish, use it as a topping for tacos or salads, or add it to sandwiches or wraps. It's a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways.

Can I customize the slaw to my taste?

Yes, you can customize the slaw to your taste by adding or subtracting ingredients. Some ideas for customization include adding diced apples or grapes, using different types of nuts, or incorporating diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.

The Full Recipe

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