This Lemony Shaved Fennel Asparagus Salad is a crisp, elegant celebration of fresh, seasonal produce. Featuring delicate fennel, asparagus ribbons, creamy avocado, and a lemony vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s ideal for spring and summer. Toasted almonds add the perfect crunch, while a sprinkle of fresh dill brings a bright herbaceous finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Light, clean, and packed with nutrients, this salad is as beautiful as it is flavorful. The combination of shaved fennel and asparagus creates a unique texture—crunchy yet delicate—while the lemon vinaigrette adds zing and freshness. With avocado for richness and toasted almonds for depth, every bite is balanced and satisfying. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it a versatile and health-conscious choice for light lunches, picnics, or side dishes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly shaved
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and shaved into ribbons
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Thinly slice the fennel bulb using a mandoline or sharp knife. Transfer the slices to a large mixing bowl.
- Shave the asparagus into long ribbons using a vegetable peeler. Add the ribbons to the bowl with the fennel.
- Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil over the vegetables. Add the lemon zest, salt, and pepper, and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Add the avocado slices and toasted almonds to the bowl. Carefully fold everything together, being gentle to avoid mashing the avocado.
- Sprinkle the salad with fresh chopped dill. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 10 minutes to let the flavors develop before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 210 kcal
Variations
- Add protein: Top with grilled shrimp, poached salmon, or sliced hard-boiled eggs for a more filling dish.
- Cheese option: Add crumbled feta or shaved Pecorino for a salty, creamy contrast (if not keeping dairy-free).
- Change the herb: Substitute dill with fresh mint, tarragon, or parsley for a different herbal note.
- Citrus upgrade: Add orange or grapefruit segments for extra brightness and visual appeal.
- Extra crunch: Include thinly sliced radishes or cucumber for additional texture.
Storage/Reheating
This salad is best served fresh, as the shaved vegetables and avocado do not hold up well once dressed.
If you need to prep in advance, store the shaved fennel and asparagus separately from the dressing and avocado. Combine just before serving.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, though the avocado may begin to brown.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the avocado and almonds separate until just before serving. Store the shaved fennel and asparagus with the dressing in the fridge for a few hours.
How do I shave asparagus?
Use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons by dragging it lengthwise along the stalk. A mandoline may also work for thicker shavings.
Is fennel strong in flavor?
Raw fennel has a mild, anise-like flavor that mellows when sliced thinly. It pairs beautifully with lemon and herbs in this salad.
What can I substitute for dill?
Fresh mint, parsley, or chives can be used in place of dill depending on your flavor preference.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used if necessary.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, it is low in carbs and high in healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, making it suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
What should I serve with this salad?
It pairs well with grilled fish, chicken, or crusty bread for a light meal or as a refreshing side dish.
Can I use other nuts?
Yes, toasted pistachios, walnuts, or sunflower seeds all work well as substitutes for almonds.
Is it safe to eat raw asparagus?
Yes, when sliced thinly, raw asparagus is tender and sweet, making it ideal for fresh salads.
Can I make it without avocado?
Yes, simply omit the avocado or substitute with shaved cucumber or mango for a different twist.
Conclusion
Lemony Shaved Fennel Asparagus Salad is a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce, offering a crisp texture and bright citrus flavor in every bite. With its balance of earthiness, acidity, and creaminess, this dish is ideal for spring and summer dining. Easy to prepare and naturally gluten- and dairy-free, it’s a perfect light lunch or elegant side dish that’s sure to impress.
Print
This Lemony Shaved Fennel Asparagus Salad is a crisp, refreshing spring or summer dish. Made with thinly shaved fennel and asparagus, creamy avocado, toasted almonds, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this plant-based, gluten-free, and dairy-free salad is perfect for light lunches, dinner parties, or Mediterranean-inspired meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
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1 medium fennel bulb, thinly shaved
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1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and shaved into ribbons
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1 ripe avocado, sliced
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1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
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2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1 lemon
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Use a mandoline or sharp knife to shave the fennel bulb thinly and transfer to a large bowl.
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Shave asparagus into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler and add to the bowl.
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Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over the vegetables. Add lemon zest, salt, and pepper, and toss gently to coat.
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Add avocado slices and toasted almonds. Fold gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
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Sprinkle with fresh dill and serve immediately, or chill for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
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Substitute dill with mint, basil, or parsley for a different flavor.
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Add shaved Parmesan or goat cheese for extra richness if not dairy-free.
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Serve alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal.