Baked feta salad with mandarin and fennel

Discover a vibrant twist with baked feta salad with mandarin and fennel, a fresh, flavorful, and colorful dish that combines creamy, tangy baked feta cheese with the bright sweetness of mandarins and the crisp, anise-flavored crunch of fennel. This salad bursts with layers of texture and taste, perfect for refreshing any meal or adding a unique centerpiece to your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Flavor Combine: The baked feta’s creaminess blends effortlessly with juicy mandarins and crunchy fennel for a delightful taste experience.
• Perfect Balance: Sweet, savory, and slightly tangy notes come together creating a well-rounded, mouthwatering salad.
• Vibrant Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great as a light lunch, an appetizer, or a side dish to complement a variety of mains.
• Seasonally Inspired: Highlights fresh citrus and fennel, making it perfect for sunny spring and winter menus alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients create complex flavors and textures in this baked feta salad with mandarin and fennel. Each component adds its own essential element, from creamy richness to crunchy freshness, ensuring each bite delivers something special.

• Feta cheese block: Choose a good-quality, crumbly feta for a creamy texture that holds well when baked.
• Mandarins: Peel and segment fresh mandarins for juicy bursts of sweet citrus.
• Fresh fennel bulb: Thinly sliced for a crisp texture and mild licorice flavor.
• Olive oil: Drizzling high-quality extra virgin olive oil enriches the salad with fruity notes.
• Fresh herbs (dill or parsley): Adds a fragrant herbaceous layer that brightens each bite.
• Lemon juice: A splash balances sweetness with subtle acidity.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate the overall flavors.
• Optional nuts (like toasted almonds or pine nuts): For an extra crunch and nutty dimension.

Variations for Baked feta salad with mandarin and fennel

One of the joys of this salad is how easily it adapts to different tastes and dietary preferences. Feel free to mix and match ingredients or add your own twist to make this recipe truly your own.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili for some heat.
• Greens upgrade: Toss in arugula or baby spinach for an herbal, leafy component.
• Different citrus: Swap mandarins for blood oranges, grapefruit, or even regular oranges depending on availability and season.
• Vegan version: Substitute baked feta with marinated tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Crunch factor: Add pomegranate seeds or roasted chickpeas for an exciting texture contrast.

How to Make Baked feta salad with mandarin and fennel

Step 1: Prepare the Feta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a block of feta cheese in a small baking dish, drizzle generously with olive oil, and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the feta is slightly golden and soft but still holding its shape.

Step 2: Slice the Fennel

While the feta bakes, thinly slice the fresh fennel bulb using a sharp knife or mandoline for even, delicate slices that add crunch and flavor.

Step 3: Segment the Mandarins

Carefully peel and segment your mandarins, removing any seeds and pith to ensure juicy, sweet bites throughout the salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, gently toss the fennel slices, mandarin segments, and fresh herbs. Add a drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Transfer the warm baked feta into the salad bowl and lightly toss to combine. Optionally scatter toasted nuts on top for added crunch, and serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful experience.

Pro Tips for Making Baked feta salad with mandarin and fennel

• Choose ripe mandarins: The sweeter your mandarins, the more balanced the salad flavors.
• Don’t overbake the feta: Keep it tender and creamy, avoiding drying it out for the best texture.
• Thin fennel slicing: Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife for paper-thin fennel that won’t overpower the salad.
• Toast nuts lightly: Gently toasting nuts before adding enhances their flavor and crunch.
• Fresh herbs are key: Dill and parsley bring lightness and freshness that cut through the richness of feta.

How to Serve Baked feta salad with mandarin and fennel

Garnishes

Top with freshly cracked black pepper, a sprinkle of finely chopped dill, or a little drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness and color pop.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a simple crusty bread to soak up the delicious olive oil and citrus juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a rustic wooden bowl for a homey vibe or in elegant white plates to highlight the vivid colors. Adding edible flowers like nasturtiums can also impress your guests visually and gastronomically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salad and baked feta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture for up to two days.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for the salad due to the delicate citrus and fennel; baked feta can be frozen but may change in texture once thawed.

Reheating

Reheat the baked feta gently in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), for 5-7 minutes to avoid drying it out before combining it back into the salad.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, feta works best for its salty tang and creamy texture, but halloumi or goat cheese can be baked as alternatives if you prefer a milder or creamier flavor.

How do I pick the best fennel bulb?

Look for a firm, white bulb without brown spots or cracks, with fresh green fronds attached if possible for extra flavor use.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

It can be prepped in parts, but it’s best assembled right before serving to keep the fennel crisp and the mandarin juicy.

Can I add protein to make this a full meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent protein additions to round out this salad.

What dressing pairs best with this salad?

A simple lemon vinaigrette or extra virgin olive oil with a pinch of sea salt is ideal, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a bright, fresh, and satisfying dish, try the baked feta salad with mandarin and fennel. This recipe is a celebration of texture, flavor, and color all in one bowl, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch or a festive dinner. Give it a go and watch how it refreshes your meals effortlessly!

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