Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Artichoke and Fennel Gratinee?
It is a rich, creamy casserole featuring artichoke hearts and fennel in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust.
What are the main vegetables in this recipe?
The primary vegetables are canned artichoke hearts, thinly sliced fennel, and sliced onions.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does it take to bake?
The dish takes approximately 30 minutes to bake until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
What size baking dish should be used?
A greased 13x9-inch baking dish is recommended.
What types of cheese are used in the gratinee?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of grated Parmesan and 1 1/4 cups of shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese.
How do I prepare the artichoke hearts?
You should use two 15-ounce cans, which need to be drained and roughly chopped.
How is the fennel prepared?
The fennel should be thinly sliced and sautéed with onions in olive oil until softened.
Is there garlic in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 3 tablespoons of minced garlic for a fragrant flavor.
What is the base of the creamy sauce?
The creamy texture is achieved by mixing mayonnaise with the cheeses and sautéed vegetables.
How do I make the breadcrumb topping?
Mix 2 cups of breadcrumbs and dried parsley with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
Should the casserole be covered while baking?
No, bake it uncovered to ensure the breadcrumb topping becomes crispy and golden.
What seasonings are used?
The dish is seasoned with kosher salt, ground black pepper, dried parsley, and a sprinkle of paprika.
How long should I sauté the onion and fennel?
Sauté them over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes until they are softened.
Can I substitute Gruyere cheese?
Yes, Swiss cheese is an excellent substitute for Gruyere in this recipe.
What is the role of the paprika?
Paprika is lightly sprinkled over the artichoke mixture for added flavor and a hint of color.
How much mayonnaise is needed?
The recipe requires 3/4 cup of mayonnaise.
How much onion is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of thinly sliced onion.
Do I need to melt the butter for the topping?
Yes, melt the butter in the microwave for about 10 seconds before mixing with the breadcrumbs.
What kind of oil is used for sautéing?
One tablespoon of olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a perfect comforting dish for gatherings with family and friends.
How much fennel is required?
You need 1 cup of thinly sliced fennel.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish is velvety and creamy on the inside with a delightful crunch from the breadcrumb crust.
What are some suggested side dishes?
It is recommended to serve this gratinee with a fresh salad or crusty bread.
How much dried parsley is used?
A total of 2 tablespoons of dried parsley is split between the mixture and the topping.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe specifies minced garlic, which is typically fresh for the best flavor.
How do I know when the gratinee is done?
It is done when the top is bubbly and has turned a golden brown color after 30 minutes of baking.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your 13x9-inch baking dish.
How much salt and pepper should be added?
The recipe suggests 1 teaspoon each of kosher salt and ground black pepper, adjusted to taste.
Should I let the dish cool before serving?
Yes, letting it cool slightly helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.