Baked Fennel

Name: Baked Fennel
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Fennel (3 large, to clean) 2.2 lbs; Extra virgin olive oil 6 spoonfuls; Wildflower honey 2 spoonfuls; Lemon juice 1; Parsley to taste; Fine salt to taste; Black pepper to taste

it de es fr br

Gluten Free
Lactose Free
Vegetarian

Difficulty: Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Serving: 4
Cost: Low

PRESENTATION

Fresh fennel, you know, adds a unique twist to Italian meals, and baked fennel? It's really something special. Across different regions of Italy, fennel's often sautéed, but this roasted fennel version? It’s kinda different. By baking it, the fennel gets tender and golden, with a hint of crispness from a quick grill blast at the end. Really tasty. An olive oil and honey emulsion poured over it adds a naturally sweet and aromatic flavor—seriously stands out from other fennel recipes. And look, those who love veggies will appreciate how roasting brings out a caramelized taste that pairs so well with Mediterranean classics. You still get that slightly anise-like scent that makes fennel special, but it comes with a richer and almost moist bite that complements a lot of other foods.

Switching up the usual side dishes with oven-baked fennel? It really brightens the dinner table, for sure. Italian kitchens often serve this fennel side dish with various meats and fish dishes, letting the sweet notes from the honey and tangy olive oil balance out those richer flavors. Pretty much. There’s something to be said about how this easy fennel recipe is both healthy and satisfying, making it a fave in homes that care about good food without the fuss. Sprinkling a little parmesan on top turns it into a kind of fennel with parmesan that’s even more crispy and savory—showing off just how flexible this dish can be. Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment a bit, oven-baked fennel stands out as a healthy vegetable side that feels special but doesn’t require any fancy tricks. It’s simple, good for you, and really really deserves a spot next to your favorite main courses, especially if you’re curious about new ways to enjoy veggies. Plus, the colorful flavors and ease of preparation make it a great addition to any meal, enhancing the overall dining experience with its great taste and texture.

How to prepare Baked Fennel

To prepare baked fennel, first clean the fennel by removing the ends 1; you will get about 800 grams (1.76 lbs). Then cut them into slices 3/8 inch thick 2. As you work, place them in a bowl with cold water and lemon juice 3.

In the meantime, prepare the emulsion: in a small bowl, pour the oil 4, the honey 5, and a level teaspoon of salt 6.

Add the ground black pepper 7 and mix vigorously with a spoon to emulsify 8. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly brush it with the freshly prepared emulsion 9.

Drain the fennel, pat them dry with a clean cloth, and arrange them neatly in the tray. Drizzle the remaining emulsion over the fennel 10, then season with 2 tablespoons of oil 11. Bake in a preheated convection oven at 392°F for 25 minutes. Then turn on the grill and cook for another 5 minutes. Your baked fennel is ready to be served 12!