This vibrant and refreshing beet fennel and mandarin orange salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish that brings color and flavor to any meal. The combination of sweet beets, crunchy fennel, and juicy oranges creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
#### **Ingredients:**
- 2 medium-sized beetroots
- 1 bulb of fennel
- 3 mandarin oranges (or segments)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
#### **Steps:**
1. **Preparation of Beets:**
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the beetroots thoroughly.
- Wrap each beet in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. **Cooking Fennel:**
- While the beets are roasting, prepare the fennel by cutting off the top and bottom, then slicing it in half lengthwise.
- Trim the fronds (optional) and thinly slice the bulb into wedges.
- In a pan over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, sauté the sliced fennel until it becomes tender but still retains some crunch.
3. **Slicing Beets:**
- Once the beets are done roasting, let them cool slightly. Peel off the skin and cut each beet into bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the beet slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
4. **Adding Fennel and Oranges:**
- Place the sautéed fennel around the beets.
- Halve the mandarin oranges and remove any white pith. Cut them into segments and add them to the salad.
5. **Dressing Preparation:**
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Drizzle this dressing over the salad just before serving.
6. **Final Touches:**
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added color and aroma.
- Serve immediately while it's still crisp and juicy!
#### **Tips & Variations:**
- For a more intense flavor, try marinating the beets in balsamic vinegar for an hour before roasting.
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of honey to your vinaigrette.
- Add some crumbled feta cheese or grilled chicken for extra protein.
#### **Conclusion:**
This beet fennel and mandarin orange salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The combination of natural sweetness from the beets and oranges, paired with the unique anise flavor of fennel, makes it a standout dish that will impress your guests or satisfy your own taste buds.