Fennel is a unique vegetable that is packed with a variety of health benefits, but it is often overlooked in the kitchen due to its intense anise-like flavor. However, with the right recipe and preparation method, can be transformed into a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed by the entire family. One such recipe is a , fennel.
Ingredients:
– 2 large fennel bulbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut off the top and bottom of each fennel bulb, and then slice the bulbs into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced fennel to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fennel is tender and lightly browned.
5. Transfer the fennel to a 9-inch square baking dish and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs and chopped parsley. Sprinkle the mixture over the cheese.
7. Bake the gratin fennel for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread crumbs are golden brown.
8. Serve the gratin fennel hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.
This light, oven-baked gratin fennel is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this unique vegetable. The combination of tender, caramelized fennel with the crispy, savory topping makes for a satisfying and flavorful dish that is sure to please. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices for a unique flavor profile every time.
But, what makes this recipe “light”? It’s the use of panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. Panko bread crumbs are coarser than regular bread crumbs and absorb less oil when cooked, which yields a lighter and crunchier texture without the added calories or fat. Additionally, using Parmesan cheese sparingly keeps the dish lower in calories while still delivering a satisfying, savory flavor.
Aside from its delicious taste, fennel is also a nutritional powerhouse. It’s a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants. Fennel has been shown to boost digestion, relieve digestive issues such as bloating and constipation, and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Overall, this light, oven-baked gratin fennel is a must-try recipe that is not only tasty but also highly nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a fennel lover or new to this versatile vegetable, this recipe is sure to impress and become a staple in your meal rotation.