📖 Instructions

1. First things first, let's prep the grapefruit. Cut off the top and bottom, then carefully slice away the peel, following the curve of the fruit. Make sure you get rid of all the white pith – that's where the bitterness hides.
2. Now, carefully segment the grapefruit. Hold the peeled grapefruit in your hand and slice along each membrane to release the juicy segments. Collect the segments in a large bowl and squeeze any remaining juice from the grapefruit carcass into a small bowl for the dressing. Trust me, this is so much better than using juice from a bottle.
3. Time for the fennel. Trim the stalks and fronds. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the fennel bulb. If you have a mandoline, even better! You want those slices paper-thin. Add the sliced fennel to the bowl with the grapefruit.
4. If you're using red onion, slice it super thin as well. Soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes. This helps to mellow out its bite. Drain the onion and add it to the grapefruit and fennel.
5. Time to craft our dressing. In the small bowl with the grapefruit juice (about 2 tablespoons should be fine), whisk in the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Make sure it's well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You want a balance of sweet, tart, and savory. If you feel particularly bold, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, but that is completely optional!
6. Pour the dressing over the grapefruit, fennel, and red onion. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly. Be careful not to mash the grapefruit segments.
7. Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can even chill it in the fridge for a bit if you prefer a colder salad, but don't leave it too long, or the fennel will lose its crunch.
8. Before serving, garnish with fresh fennel fronds and mint leaves for that extra pop of freshness. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios for a delightful crunch. If you are feeling fancy add a dollop of goat cheese for a delicious creamy addition. Serve immediately and enjoy this burst of fresh flavor!