Sweet and Spicy Fennel Sald

My husband first made this salad as a side dish on our anniversary a few years ago. Since then, I have changed and added to it, and it has become one of my favorites. I get excited every year when I see Fennel come in season at the grocery store. Fennel, also called Anise in some places, has a very unique flavor and mixed with the other ingredients, creates a very interesting palette. It is unexpected, spicy, sweet and perfect for hot summer days.

** If you don't find fennel at your regular store, try looking at an international store or asian market.

They usually carry it year round and for a lot less than most large chains.

This is what you need (makes about 6 servings)

3 medium sized Fennel/Anise (pictured right)
½ onion, diced very fine
1 red sweet apple

Dressing:

3 Tablespoons Honey
4 Tablespoons Apple cider vinegar
3 Tablespoons Sour cream
2 Tablespoons Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
½ Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
2 Tablespoons of fresh chopped Dill (or dried if you can not find fresh!)
Garlic, Salt, Pepper to taste
For an extra kick add Cayenne pepper

This is how you do it

Mix all the dressing ingredients in a bowl. Mix well and then set aside.
Wash and slice/dice the fennel and onions. Hold the apple to the end to avoid browning.
Mix everything very well, let it sit ½ an hour or overnight for best results!
Right before serving peel and dice your apple and mix under.
Add any additional spices, to your taste.