Shanklish Salad: A Taste of the Levant

The first time I encountered Shanklish, it wasn’t in a fancy restaurant or a beautifully styled food magazine. It was at a small, bustling Middle Eastern grocery store, tucked away on a side street. The aroma of spices hung heavy in the air, mingling with the scent of freshly baked bread. There, amidst jars of olives and stacks of pita, were these intriguing, spice-coated cheese balls. The owner, seeing my curiosity, offered me a taste. That first bite – the tangy, salty cheese against the earthy za’atar – was a revelation. It was a flavor explosion that transported me to sun-drenched landscapes and ancient culinary traditions. This salad, built around that unique cheese, became a fast favorite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: 1 platter
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 large fennel bulbs, with tips, stalks, and fronds intact
• ½ small Spanish onion, very thinly sliced
• 200 g feta (or Shanklish cheese)
• 2 teaspoons za’atar spice mix (if using feta)
• 1 slice preserved lemon, wedge, pith and flesh removed, very thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Equipment Needed

• Mandoline
• Large bowl
• Serving platter

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the fennel. Reserve the fennel fronds for garnish.
2. Using a mandoline, carefully thinly slice the fennel bulbs.
3. Place the sliced fennel in a bowl of cold water for 5 minutes, or until ready to serve. This helps keep the fennel crisp and prevents it from browning.
4. To assemble the salad, drain the fennel well. Ensure all excess water is removed.
5. On a serving platter, create a bed of drained fennel slices.
6. Layer the thinly sliced Spanish onion over the fennel.
7. Crumble the Shanklish cheese evenly over the fennel and onion. If using feta, sprinkle it generously with the za’atar spice mix before crumbling. This adds the characteristic tangy, earthy flavor that Shanklish provides.
8. Scatter the thinly sliced preserved lemon over the salad. The preserved lemon adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the other flavors.
9. Garnish with the reserved fennel fronds.
10. Drizzle the salad generously with extra virgin olive oil.
11. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Fennel Preparation: For the best texture, slice the fennel just before serving. If you need to slice it in advance, store it in ice water to maintain its crispness.
• Shanklish Sourcing: Authentic Shanklish can sometimes be hard to find. Don’t hesitate to ask your local Middle Eastern grocer for recommendations or to pre-order it.
• Flavor Enhancement: Toast the za’atar spice mix in a dry pan for a minute or two before sprinkling it on the feta. This intensifies its aroma and flavor. Be careful not to burn it!
• Preserved Lemon Shortcut: If you can’t find preserved lemon, you can substitute it with a small amount of lemon zest mixed with a pinch of salt. It won’t be quite the same, but it will provide a similar citrusy element.
• Onion Mellowing: If you find raw onion too strong, soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the salad. This helps reduce its pungency.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Shanklish salad is best served immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures of the fennel and onion. Arrange it artfully on a platter for an appealing presentation. It makes a fantastic appetizer, side dish, or light lunch.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the fennel and onion may lose some of their crispness over time. It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the textures will be compromised.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	118 kcal	6%
Total Fat	9g	11%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	22mg	7%
Sodium	313mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	6g	2%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Sugars	1g	2%
Protein	4g	8%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Substitute the Shanklish or feta with a crumbled vegan feta cheese alternative. There are several delicious options available made from nuts or tofu.
• Herb Variations: Add other fresh herbs, such as mint, parsley, or dill, for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salad for a touch of heat.
• Seasonal Fennel: If fresh fennel isn’t available, you could try using thinly sliced celery or radishes as a substitute, although the flavor will be different.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is Shanklish cheese?
A: Shanklish is a Middle Eastern cheese, typically made from cow’s or goat’s milk, that is aged and then coated in spices, often za’atar. It has a crumbly texture and a tangy, salty flavor.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the fennel and onion. You can slice the fennel and onion ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.

Q: What if I can’t find za’atar spice mix?
A: You can make your own za’atar by combining dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. There are many recipes online for homemade za’atar blends.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that your za’atar spice mix does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

Q: How can I adjust the saltiness of the salad?
A: The saltiness of the salad comes from the Shanklish (or feta) and the preserved lemon. If you prefer a less salty salad, use a lower-sodium feta or rinse the preserved lemon before slicing it.

Final Thoughts

This Shanklish salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and a journey to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine. The combination of crisp fennel, pungent onion, tangy cheese, and fragrant spices creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Shanklish for yourself. Feel free to experiment with the variations and substitutions to create your own unique twist. Don’t be afraid to share your creations and feedback. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a refreshing addition to a mezze platter. Enjoy!