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Savory Caramelized Fennel Recipe – Easy Parmesan & Herb Side Dish

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Tender fennel wedges are caramelized in olive oil and butter, then finished with Parmesan and fresh herbs for a golden, cheesy, and flavorful side dish. This easy recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large fennel bulbs (about 1.75 lbs), trimmed and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or more olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley and dill recommended), chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim off the stalks and fronds from the fennel bulbs (reserve fronds for garnish if desired). Slice each bulb in half lengthwise, then cut into 1/2-inch wedges. Remove any tough core pieces.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter; let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Arrange fennel wedges in a single layer in the pan (work in batches if needed). Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the underside is golden and starting to soften. Flip wedges gently.
  4. Scatter minced garlic over the fennel and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Stir gently to mix.
  5. Continue to cook fennel, turning occasionally, until wedges are very tender and deep golden (another 6-8 minutes). If browning too quickly, reduce heat and add a tablespoon of water.
  6. Sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the fennel. Toss gently to melt and coat the wedges. Add chopped fresh herbs and toss again. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Optional: Add lemon zest and a pinch of red pepper flakes for brightness and heat. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with reserved fennel fronds or extra herbs.

Notes

For dairy-free, use more olive oil and vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast. Use fresh Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches for proper caramelization. Adjust herbs to taste and season after caramelizing for perfect results. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized fennel, parmesan fennel, fennel side dish, easy vegetable recipe, Italian side, gluten-free, vegetarian, healthy fennel, herb fennel, skillet fennel

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/savory-caramelized-fennel-recipe-easy-parmesan-and-herb-side-dish/