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Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette

This vibrant citrus salad with fennel vinaigrette is a masterclass in balancing flavour and texture. Combining juicy segments of orange and grapefruit with the sharp crunch of chicory and frisée, this dairy-free dish is elevated by a warm, aromatic dressing infused with ginger and crushed fennel seeds. The addition of spiced sesame clusters provides a delightful sweetness and crunch that offsets the bitter notes of the hardy salad greens.

Ideal as a sophisticated starter or a light, refreshing lunch, this seasonal salad showcases the best of winter citrus. The sesame clusters can be prepared up to a week in advance, making this an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining. Serve it alongside grilled fish or enjoy it on its own for a bright, nutrient-packed meal that feels both healthy and indulgent.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette

  • 1 large egg white

  • 3 tablespoons sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoons ground cloves

  • 1/4 teaspoons ground nutmeg

  • 240ml sesame seeds

  • 80ml olive oil

  • 1/4 small fennel bulb, finely chopped, plus 120ml chopped fronds

  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped peeled ginger

  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed

  • 60ml white wine vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 4 navel oranges, blood oranges, tangerines, and/or grapefruit

  • 10 cups mixed hardy salad greens (such as radicchio, frisée, and/or endive

  • about 450g )

  • 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

How to make Citrus Salad with Fennel Vinaigrette

Preheat oven to 177°C. Whisk egg white in a small bowl until slightly foamy; whisk in sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Add sesame seeds and toss to coat.

Spoon sesame mixture in clumps on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, 10–12 minutes. Let cool.

DO AHEAD: Sesame clusters can be made 1 week ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add chopped fennel, shallot, ginger, and fennel seeds and cook, stirring often, until tender (do not let brown), 8–10 minutes. Mix in vinegar and honey. Let cool; season with salt and pepper.

Finely grate 1 teaspoon zest from 1 orange; set aside. Using a sharp knife, cut all peel and white pith from all oranges; discard. Cut between membranes to release segments into a medium bowl; discard membranes.

Toss greens, parsley, fennel fronds, oranges, and dressing in a large bowl. Serve topped with sesame clusters and reserved orange zest.

DO AHEAD: Dressing can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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