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Fresh Apple Fennel Slaw with Honey Mustard Dressing

apple fennel slaw - featured image

A crisp, refreshing slaw featuring sweet apples, crunchy fennel, and a tangy honey mustard dressing. This easy side dish is perfect for any occasion and comes together in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large apples, crisp and sweet (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji; leave skin on for color)
  • 1 medium fennel bulb (white part only; stalks and fronds reserved for garnish)
  • 1 small carrot, peeled and julienned
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fennel fronds, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or agave/maple syrup for vegan)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (extra-virgin preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash apples and fennel bulb thoroughly. Slice apples into thin matchsticks or wedges (about 1/8 inch thick). Slice fennel into paper-thin rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife. Peel and julienne the carrot. Chop parsley and fennel fronds. Slice red onion thinly if using.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until smooth. Add salt, black pepper, and poppy seeds (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
  3. Place apples, fennel, carrot, parsley, fennel fronds, and red onion in a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over veggies. Toss gently with tongs or salad servers to coat evenly.
  4. Optional: Cover and chill slaw in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  5. Garnish with extra parsley or fennel fronds. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For best texture, slice apples and fennel as thinly as possible. Toss apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Chill slaw before serving for enhanced flavor. For vegan, use agave or maple syrup instead of honey. Dressing can be made ahead and stored separately. Add fresh herbs or nuts for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple slaw, fennel slaw, honey mustard dressing, easy side dish, gluten-free, vegetarian, picnic salad, healthy slaw, potluck recipe, fresh salad