Roasted Fennel with Parmesan is a simple yet elegant side dish that transforms fennel’s mild licorice flavor into something sweet, nutty, and caramelized. When roasted, fennel becomes tender with golden edges, and the melted Parmesan adds a savory touch that balances beautifully. It’s an excellent companion for roasted meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains and brings a comforting aroma to the table.
1. Ingredients
- 3 large fennel bulbs, trimmed and sliced into ½-inch wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish
2. Cooking Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Roasting time: 35–40 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
3. Serving Quantity
- Serves 4 people
4. Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Fennel: Trim off the fennel stalks and tough outer layers. Slice bulbs vertically into wedges, keeping the base intact so the pieces hold together.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss fennel wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast: Spread on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the edges are golden and the fennel is tender.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the fennel and roast for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts and forms a light crust.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven, drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle lemon zest and parsley on top, and serve warm.
5. Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 4 g
6. Tips for Best Results
- Choose fennel bulbs that are firm and white with bright green fronds.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures the fennel roasts rather than steams.
- For deeper flavor, add a few crushed garlic cloves to the pan before roasting.
- If you like extra crisp edges, broil for the last 2 minutes.
- This dish pairs perfectly with roast chicken, fish, or pasta in creamy sauce.
Roasted Fennel with Parmesan is both rustic and refined—a dish that turns a humble vegetable into something special. With its caramelized sweetness and cheesy topping, it’s an easy way to add warmth and sophistication to any meal.
