Lemon-Infused Baked Fennel with Parmesan Crust
Delight in the vibrant flavors of this Lemon-Infused Baked Fennel with Parmesan Crust, a delectable vegetable dish that elevates the natural sweetness of fennel. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice and rind, complemented by a rich layer of melted parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish to accompany your favorite main course or as a light vegetarian option on its own, this dish offers a burst of flavor that will leave your guests wanting more. Share this delightful creation at your next gathering and watch it disappear!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fennel bulbs
2 (Trimmed and cut into quarters)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (Freshly squeezed)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (Freshly grated)
Lemon rind
1/2 teaspoon (Zested)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Trim the stalks from the fennel bulbs and cut each bulb into quarters, making sure to remove any tough core sections.
3
Steam the fennel quarters in a steamer basket or a pot with a steaming insert for about 20 minutes, or until they are almost tender but still hold their shape.
4
Transfer the steamed fennel to a small shallow baking dish, arranging them cut side up.
5
Brush the cut sides of the fennel with fresh lemon juice to enhance its flavor.
6
In a small bowl, combine the freshly grated parmesan cheese, lemon rind, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
7
Sprinkle the cheese mixture generously over the fennel quarters, covering them completely.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fennel is tender and the parmesan is golden and bubbly.
9
Once baked, allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish warm!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon-Infused Baked Fennel with Parmesan Crust?
It is a vibrant vegetable dish that combines the natural sweetness of fennel with zesty lemon and a rich parmesan crust.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this dish is completely vegetarian.
How many fennel bulbs are required?
You will need 2 fennel bulbs for this recipe.
What oven temperature is needed?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
How do I prepare the fennel for cooking?
Trim the stalks, remove the core, and cut each bulb into quarters.
Why do I need to steam the fennel first?
Steaming ensures the fennel is tender before it goes into the oven to be crisped with cheese.
How long should the fennel be steamed?
Steam the quarters for about 20 minutes until they are almost tender but still hold their shape.
How do I arrange the fennel in the baking dish?
Place the steamed fennel quarters cut side up in a small shallow baking dish.
Why is lemon juice brushed on the fennel?
Brushing with fresh lemon juice enhances the natural flavor of the vegetable.
What ingredients make up the topping?
The topping consists of freshly grated parmesan cheese, lemon rind, and freshly ground pepper.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
Freshly grated parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and superior melting quality.
How much lemon rind is needed?
You need 1/2 teaspoon of zested lemon rind.
How long is the baking time?
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes.
How can I tell if the dish is finished baking?
The fennel should be tender and the parmesan topping should be golden and bubbly.
Can I substitute the parmesan cheese?
While parmesan is traditional, you could try Pecorino Romano for a similar salty profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, since it uses no flour or breadcrumbs, it is naturally gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It works perfectly as a side dish for a main course or as a light vegetarian meal.
Can I add other herbs to the cheese mixture?
Yes, adding fresh thyme or parsley would complement the lemon and fennel well.
What should I do with the fennel stalks?
The stalks are trimmed off in this recipe, but you can save them for making vegetable stock.
Do I need to remove the fennel core?
Yes, make sure to remove any tough core sections when cutting the bulbs into quarters.
Can I use a larger baking dish?
It is best to use a small shallow dish so the fennel quarters stay close together.
How much pepper should I add?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper.
Can I make this dish vegan?
You can substitute the parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative to make this dish vegan.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I reheat this dish?
Yes, you can reheat it in the oven to maintain the texture of the parmesan crust.
What if I don't have a steamer basket?
You can use a pot with a small amount of water and a tight-fitting lid to steam the fennel.
Is this a healthy side dish?
Yes, it is a healthy, low-calorie vegetable side dish rich in flavor.
Should I serve it hot?
Yes, it is best enjoyed warm, though you should allow it to cool slightly after baking.
Can I use more lemon juice?
You can adjust the lemon juice to taste if you prefer a more tart flavor profile.