Fennel & Orange Salad with French Dressing

A Bright, Citrus‑Forward Salad for Effortless Summer Dining

This fennel, orange, and olive salad is the definition of simple sophistication — crisp,

Classic French Dressing

aromatic, and bursting with contrast. The sweetness of fresh orange, the gentle anise of fennel, the briny richness of Kalamata olives, and the sharp lift of Frenchmaid Classic French Dressing come together to create a dish that feels refreshing yet bold.

It’s exactly the kind of side that delivers colour, crunch, and brightness to any summer menu. Light enough for a lunch pairing, refined enough for dinner service, and fast to prepare during busy shifts. Finished with rocket and walnuts for peppery bite and earthy crunch, it’s harmonious, elegant, and ready for the pass in minutes.

Think of it as your go‑to citrus salad — clean, vibrant, and built for warm weather plates.

Ingredients

• 2 fennel bulbs, finely sliced

• 2 Tbsp Italian parsley, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted

• 2 oranges

• 4 Tbsp Frenchmaid Classic French Dressing

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup rocket

• 1/2 cup walnut halves

Method

1. Prepare the Citrus: Peel the oranges and cut into clean segments, removing all pith for a smooth, refined finish.

2. Build the Salad Base: In a mixing bowl, combine fennel, olives, parsley, and the orange segments. Add two tablespoons of Frenchmaid Classic French Dressing and toss lightly to coat. Season with salt and ground black pepper.

3. Plate & Layer: Transfer the salad mixture into a serving bowl. Top with a generous handful of rocket for peppery freshness.

4. Finish: Drizzle with the remaining Frenchmaid Classic French Dressing and garnish with walnut halves for texture and richness.

5. Serve Immediately: This salad shines with crisp fennel and bright, just‑cut citrus — best enjoyed fresh.

Chef’s Tips

• Dressing Swap: Frenchmaid Classic French Dressing can be replaced with Frenchmaid Italian Dressing for a herb‑forward twist.

• Extra crunch: Lightly toast the walnuts before garnishing for deeper nuttiness.

• Menu pairing: Excellent beside grilled fish, roast chicken, or charred halloumi.

• Make‑ahead: Prep fennel and oranges ahead of service; dress to order to maintain freshness.

Why It Works

The balance here is everything: the sweetness of orange, the sharpness of Classic French Dressing, the subtle liquorice notes of fennel, and the salty depth of Kalamata olives. Rocket adds bite, walnuts add crunch, and the result is a salad that’s refreshing yet layered with complex flavour.

Perfect for summer menus that demand clean, striking, Mediterranean‑inspired dishes with minimal prep and maximum impact.