Dried Fig, Orange, Fennel, and Sweet Onion Salad with Mixed Greens

1. 1

   Combine the figs, orange juice, and fennel seeds in a small saucepan and heat to a boil.

2. 2

   Cook, covered, over low heat until the figs are soft and the juice is reduced to 2 tablespoons, 20 to 25 minutes.

3. 3

   Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until chilled.

4. 4

   This step can be done 1 or 2 days before serving.

5. 5

   Cut the fennel in half lengthwise; place the halves cut side down, and slice into thin half circles.

6. 6

   Finely chop 2 tablespoons of the fernlike fronds and reserve them.

7. 7

   Place the fennel slices in a bowl of iced water and let stand for at least 20 minutes.

8. 8

   Then drain and blot dry.

9. 9

   Grate 1/2 teaspoon zest from one of the oranges, and set it aside.

10. 10

    Cut the peel and the white pith from the oranges.

11. 11

    Working over a bowl to catch the juice, cut between the membranes with a small sharp knife to release the segments.

12. 12

    In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of the fresh orange juice (reserve the remainder for another use) and the 2 tablespoons reserved fig juices with the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, a grinding of pepper, and the reserved grated zest; whisk to blend.

13. 13

    Gently toss the orange segments, minced onion, and reserved fennel fronds together in a medium bowl.

14. 14

    Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the dressing and set aside.

15. 15

    Add the salad greens and the fennel slices to the dressing and toss to coat.

16. 16

    Divide the salad among 4 salad plates.

17. 17

    Spoon the orange and onion mixture over the salad greens.

18. 18

    Halve the figs and distribute them evenly among the plates.

19. 19

    Garnish with the onion rings, and serve.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.