Fennel and Apple Salad with Pistachios

By Sho @ Hungry for Thai on Apr 24th 2025

Looking for a pocket friendly recipe that’s big on flavor but easy on your wallet?

This fennel and apple salad is a fresh, no-cook dish that proves delicious doesn’t have to mean expensive.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, it’s one of those affordable meals for every budget—perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or an easy side dish any day of the week.

Since I live abroad, I’ve had many opportunities to try things that aren’t commonly found in Thailand.

Fennel has become one of my new favorites—I love its unique aroma and crisp texture.

It shines in this summer salad, which is both crunchy and absolutely delicious.

If you’ve never tried raw fennel before, this is the easiest recipe to start with.

The combo of fennel and green apple tossed in pistachio sauce is simply irresistible!

No-Cook Fennel and Apple Salad with Pistachios🥗

With crisp green apples, delicate shaved fennel, and the crunch of crushed pistachios, this easy salad is full of flavor and texture.

It’s perfect for warm days, fancy brunches, or when you just want something light and delicious.

Bonus? It looks as beautiful as it tastes!

This dish is also inspired by the popular fennel salad with crushed pistachios, but with a sweet twist thanks to the apple.

What You’ll Need

• Fennel Bulb - Adds a crisp, slightly sweet, and mildly licorice-like flavor—super refreshing in raw salads.
• Green Apple - Brings a tart crunch that balances perfectly with the creamy dressing and savory cheese.
• Pistachios - These vibrant green nuts give the salad a nutty richness and an irresistible crunch when crushed or blended into a creamy dressing.
• Parmesan Cheese - Adds savory umami and a salty, cheesy depth to the pistachio sauce.
• Olive Oil - Blends everything together smoothly and adds a silky texture and richness to the dressing.
• Lemon Juice and Zest - Brightens up the whole salad with a citrusy zing—perfect for bringing out the flavors.
• Salt - Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the sweetness from the apples.
• Black Pepper - Adds a gentle kick and a bit of warmth to round out the salad.

Why You’ll Love This Fennel Apple Salad Recipe 🩷

• No Cooking Required! -Perfect for hot days or when you just don’t feel like turning on the stove.
• Super Refreshing and Light - Crisp apple and fennel keep things fresh, crunchy, and perfect for summer.
• Quick and Easy - Ready in under 15 minutes with simple ingredients you might already have.
• Healthy and Wholesome - Loaded with fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins—this salad is light but satisfying.
• Flavor-Packed - The combo of sweet apple, savory Parmesan, nutty pistachios, and zesty lemon is irresistible.
• Great for Entertaining - Looks elegant on the plate and pairs well with just about anything.
• Customizable - Toss in some spicy olives, arugula, or swap the nuts—make it your own!
• Perfect for Meal Prep - Just keep the apple separate and mix before serving for a crisp, make-ahead salad.

How to Make Fennel Apple Salad

So easy and so fresh!

1. Process pistachios, grated Parmesan, and olive oil until smooth.
2. Combine fennel and apple slices in a bowl. Add dressing, lemon juice and zest, salt, and pepper. Toss gently.
3. Plate the salad and top with fennel fronds, Parmesan slices, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy chilled or at room temp.

What to Serve With Fennel Apple Salad

Looking for the perfect sides to round out your meal? Here are some tasty ideas:

🥗 Starter: Cucumber soup

🥩 Main Course: Grilled chicken or lemon herb salmon

🍛 Side Dish: Couscous with mint and lemon

🍰 Dessert: Mixed berry sorbet or lemon granita

Summer’s Easiest Salad ☀️🥗

This elegant, no-cook fennel salad keeps things simple and fresh.

Thinly shaved fennel takes the spotlight, dressed with zesty lemon, quality olive oil, a touch of Parmesan, and your favorite herbs.

It’s light, crisp, and perfect for sunny days.

If you’re into healthy eating or love a good salad, give this one a try — it’s super fresh and totally delicious! 🥗💚