Baked Fennel Parmesan

Ingredients

• 4 fennel bulbs 4 fennel bulbs
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   Trim the fennel bulbs, removing the stalks and tough outer layers. Cut each bulb into 1/2-inch thick slices.
3. 3.
   In a bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. 4.
   Drizzle olive oil over the bottom of a baking dish. Place the fennel slices in a single layer in the dish.
5. 5.
   Sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture evenly over the fennel slices.
6. 6.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fennel is tender and the topping is golden brown.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fennel — When selecting fennel bulbs, choose ones that are firm and have a bright white color. The fronds should be green and fresh-looking. Trim off any tough outer layers before slicing.
• Parmesan cheese — For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Avoid using pre-packaged grated cheese as it may contain additives that affect the texture and taste of the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the baked fennel before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme or rosemary to customize the dish to your taste.
• Serve the Baked Fennel Parmesan as a side dish to grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course with a side of salad.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Baked Fennel Parmesan hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the baked fennel slices on a serving platter, allowing the golden crust to be visible. Sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese and parsley on top for an appealing presentation.