Fennel Apple Arugula Walnut Salad (Print Version)

Crisp fennel and apple combine with arugula, walnuts, and shaved cheese, tossed in lemony dressing.

# Ingredients:

→ Salad Base

01 - 2 bulbs fennel
02 - 1 red apple
03 - 4 cups arugula
04 - Fennel fronds, reserved from bulbs

→ Toppings

05 - 1/4 cup walnuts
06 - 2 ounces pecorino or parmesan cheese

→ Dressing

07 - 1/4 cup olive oil
08 - Juice of 1 lemon
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, a generous pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, then set aside.
02 - Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Stir frequently until the walnuts are fragrant and lightly browned, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
03 - Trim the root ends from the fennel bulbs. Remove and reserve the fronds. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the fennel bulbs as thinly as possible. Roughly chop the reserved fennel fronds.
04 - Cut the apple into quarters, leaving the core behind. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the apple quarters into thin slices.
05 - In a large mixing bowl, combine arugula, sliced fennel, apple slices, and chopped fennel fronds. Gently toss to distribute ingredients evenly.
06 - Drizzle the reserved dressing over the salad. Toss thoroughly to ensure the greens and produce are evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
07 - Transfer salad to serving dish. Top with toasted walnuts and shave pecorino or parmesan cheese over the salad using a vegetable peeler. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For the best flavor and texture, use crisp, tart apple varieties such as Honeycrisp or Pink Lady.