Chopped Carrot Salad with Fennel, Orange, and Hazelnuts – A Bright, Crunchy Delight

This Chopped Carrot Salad with Fennel, Orange, and Hazelnuts is a vibrant, refreshing dish that celebrates the crisp textures and bold flavors of fresh produce. Earthy-sweet carrots and anise-scented fennel pair beautifully with juicy orange segments and toasted hazelnuts, all tied together with a zesty citrus vinaigrette. It’s light, healthy, and bursting with flavor—perfect as a side salad or a light lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Crisp & Colorful – Every bite delivers crunch and color from raw veggies and citrus.
Zesty & Fresh – Oranges and vinaigrette brighten up the earthiness of carrots and fennel.
Nutty Crunch – Toasted hazelnuts add richness and texture.
Healthy & Light – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats without being heavy.

Ingredients

• 3 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped or shredded
• 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced (reserve some fronds for garnish)
• 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
• ¼ cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh orange juice (from segmented oranges)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Citrus Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped carrots, fennel slices, and orange segments. Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the top and toss to combine evenly.

3. Add Hazelnuts and Garnish
Sprinkle toasted hazelnuts over the salad and gently toss again. Garnish with chopped fennel fronds or fresh herbs if desired.

4. Serve Fresh
Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor. Pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 150
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Sugar: 9g
Fiber: 4g

Tips & Variations

• Add Greens – Serve over arugula or spinach for a more substantial salad.
• Optional Add-In – A few crumbles of feta or goat cheese add a creamy tang.
• Boost the Flavor – Add a touch of minced shallot or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for extra depth.

This Chopped Carrot Salad with Fennel, Orange, and Hazelnuts is a refreshing combination of crunchy, sweet, and savory elements. With its bright citrus notes and satisfying texture, it’s a feel-good dish that brings elegance and flavor to your table in just minutes.