This is an autumn dish if ever there was an autumn dish. Both pears and fennel are classic fall produce items and they are taking center stage in this recipe. No other ingredients will outshine this combo today! The ripe and refreshing pears offer a delicate sweetness that balances the assertive nature of the fennel. If you are familiar with fennel, you understand that it has a licorice-like or anise flavor. Because it is more intense in its raw form, you have to balance it out with inherently sweet ingredients.

For those who don’t know, fennel is rich in a variety of beneficial nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, beta-carotene, folate, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants like quercetin. The protective polyphenols exhibit an ability to reduce the risk inflammation and other inflammatory conditions. The folate also aids with red blood cell formation. By adding more folate-rich foods like fennel to your diet, you may reduce the risk of anemia. For women, consuming folate is necessary during pregnancy as it helps prevent birth defects, including spina bifida.

Not only is pear a featured salad ingredient, but it is also in the dressing. Blending pear with the dressing ingredients creates a creamy dressing that is sweet and complementary. The pear almost mellows the acidic flavor of the apple cider vinegar and fresh lemon juice. We hope you enjoy the salad and two of fall’s standout product items.