| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 120 | 9g | 2g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 4g | 3g | 0.4g |
When I first stumbled upon the magic of Roasted Fennel with Parmesan, I was immediately hooked. There’s something incredibly enchanting about the way the fennel’s natural sweetness intensifies and caramelizes in the oven, blending beautifully with the salty richness of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This dish miraculously captures a perfect harmony between my Californian love for fresh produce and the aromatic essence that often finds a home in Gujarati cuisine.
A Taste of Nostalgia
Growing up in California, my palate was blessed with an abundance of fresh, vibrant produce year-round. Fennel, with its subtle anise flavor, often made an appearance on our table in various forms but roasting it elevates it to a whole new level. The combination of the oven’s heat and a good drizzle of olive oil transforms it into a tender, golden masterpiece that’s hard to resist. Every time I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of those leisurely weekend farmers’ market strolls and the joy of bringing home a bounty of fresh veggies.
Health Meets Indulgence
One of the reasons why I adore Roasted Fennel with Parmesan is because it’s not just about the taste; it’s a powerhouse of nutrition. Fennel is loaded with fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. It’s great for digestive health and supports a strong immune system. Pairing it with olive oil and Parmesan adds healthy fats and proteins to the mix, creating a well-rounded, nutritious dish that’s both satisfying and good for you.
Click here to learn more about the health benefits of fennel.
Perfect Pairings
This dish stands out on its own, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Pair it with a hearty grilled chicken breast or a succulent fillet of salmon, and you’ve got yourself a delightful meal. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try it alongside traditional Indian dishes like a warm bowl of dal or spiced chickpea curry; the contrast in flavors is absolutely spectacular!
If you enjoy this, you might also love dishes that play with similar flavor profiles, like grilled asparagus with lemon zest or parmesan-roasted Brussels sprouts. These dishes, much like our roasted fennel, strike that beautiful balance between simplicity and sophistication.
So, the next time you’re in the mood to experiment, give this recipe a try. I promise, the flavors will whisk you away on a culinary journey that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
What You’ll Need
- 3 large bulbs of fennel (about 2 pounds), tops trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step Two
Cut each fennel bulb in half lengthwise. Then, slice each half into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
Step Three
Place the fennel slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, then sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat the fennel slices evenly with the oil and seasonings.
Step Four
Arrange the fennel slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the fennel is tender and starting to caramelize.
Step Five
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the roasted fennel.
Step Six
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step Seven
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the roasted fennel with lemon juice before serving. Enjoy your Roasted Fennel with Parmesan!
