Name: Grilled Fennel with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz fennel bulb; Olive oil spray; Kosher salt and black pepper; ½ tbsp olive oil; ½ lemon; ½ oz Parmigiano Reggiano shavings

Grilling fennel brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delightful smoky touch. This dish, enhanced with parmesan and a spritz of lemon, is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Grilled Fennel with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe

Fennel bulb might not be a staple in every kitchen, but it's the star of this recipe. When shopping, look for fresh, firm bulbs. Parmigiano Reggiano adds a rich, nutty flavor and can be found in the cheese section of most supermarkets, sometimes labeled as Parmesan.

Ingredients for Grilled Fennel with Parmesan and Lemon

fennel bulb: A vegetable with a mild, sweet flavor and a hint of licorice, perfect for grilling.

olive oil spray: Used for lightly coating the fennel to prevent sticking and to add a touch of richness.

kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the dish.

olive oil: Drizzled for extra flavor and richness.

lemon: Provides a fresh, zesty finish.

parmigiano reggiano: Shaved on top for a nutty, savory touch.

One reader, Berni Coyle says:

Grilled fennel with parmesan and lemon is a delightful dish! The charred fennel pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon and savory parmesan. It's simple yet elegant, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Highly recommend!

Berni Coyle

Techniques Required for Grilling Fennel

How to cut fennel: Stand the fennel bulb upright and cut it in half vertically from top to bottom. Then, cut each half into 4¼-inch thick slices, keeping the core intact. How to grill fennel: Heat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan over medium-high heat. Spray the pan with olive oil, place the fennel slices on the grill, and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until charred and tender. How to shave parmesan: Use a vegetable peeler or a cheese plane to create thin shavings of parmigiano reggiano.

How To Make Grilled Fennel with Parmesan and Lemon

This perfectly grilled fennel drizzled with olive oil, lemon, and topped with parmesan cheese makes for a scrumptious and easy-to-make side to any meal!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozfennel bulb,(1 large), stalks and fronds removed
olive oil spray
kosher salt and black pepper,to taste
½tbspolive oil
½lemon,juiced
½;

Instructions

Leaving the core intact, stand the bulb and cut the fennel in half vertically from top to bottom. Cut each half into 4¼-inch thick slices to make a total of 8 slices.
Spray each side with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Heat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan over medium-high heat, and spray the pan with olive oil.
Grill the fennel for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning until each side gets a good char and the fennel is tender to the touch.
Set aside on a platter, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and top with the parmesan shavings.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 97.82kcal
Fat: 7.30g
Saturated Fat: 1.52g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.84g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.82g
Carbohydrates: 7.19g
Fiber: 2.92g
Sugar: 3.55g
Protein: 2.43g
Cholesterol: 2.41mg
Sodium: 237.98mg
Calcium: 87.02mg
Potassium: 369.53mg
Iron: 0.76mg
Vitamin A: 48.31µg
Vitamin C: 14.05mg

Grilling Tip for Perfectly Cooked Fennel

When grilling fennel, make sure to leave the core intact as it helps the slices hold together during cooking. This ensures even grilling and prevents the fennel from falling apart on the grill.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Grilled Fennel

Pre-cut the fennel: Slice the fennel bulb in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use a grill pan: Opt for an indoor grill pan to save time on setting up an outdoor grill.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and parmigiano reggiano shavings before you start cooking.

Lemon juice prep: Squeeze the lemon juice ahead of time and keep it in a small container.

Olive oil spray: Use an olive oil spray for quick and even application.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Fennel with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe

fennel bulb - Substitute with celery root: Celery root has a similar texture and mild flavor that can mimic the crunch and slight sweetness of fennel.
olive oil spray - Substitute with avocado oil spray: Avocado oil spray has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for grilling.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable replacement for kosher salt.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different color, which can be useful for aesthetic purposes.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good alternative for cooking and grilling.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime provides a similar acidic and citrusy flavor that can brighten up the dish in the same way as lemon.
parmigiano reggiano shavings - Substitute with grana padano: Grana padano has a similar texture and flavor profile to parmigiano reggiano, making it an excellent substitute.

Plating Ideas for Grilled Fennel with Parmesan

Choose a pristine white plate: The clean, white background will make the vibrant green of the fennel and the golden parmesan shavings pop visually.
Arrange the fennel slices in a fan shape: Lay the grilled fennel slices in a fanned-out pattern, slightly overlapping each other to create a visually appealing base.
Drizzle olive oil artistically: Use a small spoon to drizzle olive oil in a zigzag pattern over the fennel, ensuring an even distribution while adding a touch of elegance.
Add a touch of lemon zest: Grate a small amount of lemon zest over the fennel for a burst of color and a hint of citrus aroma.
Top with parmesan shavings: Gently place the parmigiano reggiano shavings on top of the fennel, allowing them to cascade naturally for a sophisticated look.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs like parsley or dill around the plate to enhance the presentation and add a pop of green.
Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt: Lightly sprinkle some flaky sea salt over the dish to enhance the flavors and add a subtle crunch.
Serve with a lemon wedge: Place a small lemon wedge on the side of the plate for an optional extra squeeze of freshness.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Grilled Fennel

Grill: An outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan is essential for achieving the perfect char on the fennel slices.
Olive oil spray: This is used to lightly coat the fennel slices and the grill pan to prevent sticking and to add a touch of flavor.
Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for cutting the fennel bulb into even slices.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the fennel.
Tongs: Useful for turning the fennel slices on the grill to ensure even cooking.
Platter: A serving platter is used to set aside the grilled fennel and to present the final dish.
Microplane or grater: Needed for shaving the parmigiano reggiano over the grilled fennel.
Juicer: Optional but helpful for squeezing the lemon juice evenly over the fennel.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the olive oil accurately for drizzling.

Storing and Freezing Grilled Fennel

To store leftover grilled fennel, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, place the fennel on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it on a grill or in a grill pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
If you want to freeze the grilled fennel, it's best to do so without the parmesan and lemon toppings. Place the cooled fennel in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the fennel to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen grilled fennel, place it on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also thaw the fennel overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When ready to serve, top the reheated fennel with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for the best flavor and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Fennel

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled fennel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the fennel and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fennel is heated through and slightly crispy around the edges. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to allow the parmesan to melt and brown slightly. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place the leftover grilled fennel on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the fennel is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the fennel to become mushy. Once heated, drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Garnish with extra parmesan shavings before serving.
If you have a toaster oven, this can be a great option for reheating your grilled fennel. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover fennel on a small baking tray. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the fennel is warmed through and slightly crispy around the edges. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with extra parmesan shavings before serving.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover grilled fennel to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the fennel to steam rather than crisp up. Once heated, remove from the skillet and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Garnish with extra parmesan shavings before serving.

Interesting Fact About Grilled Fennel

A random fact about this recipe is that fennel is a highly aromatic and flavorful herb with a taste similar to anise. When grilled, it becomes tender and slightly caramelized, enhancing its natural sweetness.

Is Making Grilled Fennel at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled fennel with parmesan and lemon recipe is quite cost-effective. Fennel bulbs are generally affordable, and the other ingredients like olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper are pantry staples. Parmigiano Reggiano can be a bit pricey, but you only need a small amount. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $10-$12. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Grilled Fennel Recipe Healthy?

The grilled fennel with parmesan and lemon recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering several nutritional benefits:

Fennel is low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins (C and B-complex), and minerals like potassium and calcium, which support digestion, immune function, and bone health.
Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
Lemon juice adds vitamin C and enhances the absorption of iron from the fennel.
Parmesan cheese, used in moderation, provides protein, calcium, and umami flavor.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the dish even healthier:

Using olive oil spray might lead to consuming more oil than needed. Instead, brush the fennel lightly with olive oil using a pastry brush for better control over the amount used.
Parmesan cheese, while tasty, is high in saturated fat and sodium. Consider reducing the amount of cheese or opting for a lower-fat, lower-sodium cheese like part-skim mozzarella or feta.
To boost the nutritional value further, try adding other vegetables to the grill, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. This will provide a greater variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on excessive salt. Try sprinkling the fennel with dried oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes before grilling.

Editor's Opinion on This Grilled Fennel Recipe

This grilled fennel recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication. The charred fennel brings out a subtle sweetness, perfectly complemented by the tangy lemon juice and the nutty, savory notes of Parmigiano Reggiano. The olive oil adds a rich, smooth finish, while the kosher salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors. It's an elegant side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, offering a refreshing and aromatic twist. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks while delivering a restaurant-quality experience.

Enhance Your Grilled Fennel with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy goodness of potatoes infused with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the charred notes of your grilled fennel, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.

Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops: Elevate your meal with succulent lamb chops encrusted in a fragrant blend of herbs. The savory, juicy meat will provide a delightful contrast to the fresh, zesty notes of the fennel and lemon.

Citrus Arugula Salad: Brighten your plate with a refreshing arugula salad tossed in a tangy citrus vinaigrette. The peppery greens and vibrant citrus will enhance the fennel's natural sweetness and the sharpness of the parmesan.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a velvety butternut squash soup that boasts a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This comforting bowl of goodness will add a cozy, autumnal touch to your meal, making it even more inviting.

Berry Panna Cotta: End your culinary journey on a sweet note with a luscious berry panna cotta. The creamy, silky texture of this dessert paired with the tartness of fresh berries will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Similar Recipes to Grilled Fennel with Parmesan and Lemon

Roasted Carrots With Honey And Thyme: Transform your humble carrots into a delightful side dish with a touch of honey and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the honey, while the thyme adds a fragrant herbal note. Perfect for any meal, this dish is both simple and elegant.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Elevate your brussels sprouts game with a tangy balsamic glaze. Roasted until crispy and caramelized, these sprouts are then tossed in a rich balsamic reduction that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. A crowd-pleaser for sure!

Lemon Garlic Asparagus: Brighten up your asparagus with a zesty lemon and garlic dressing. This quick and easy recipe brings out the fresh flavors of the asparagus, making it a perfect side dish for any main course. The lemon adds a refreshing zing, while the garlic provides a savory depth.

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini: Turn your zucchini into a crispy, cheesy delight with a parmesan crust. Baked to perfection, these zucchini slices are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. A great way to enjoy your veggies with a bit of indulgence.

Herb Roasted Cauliflower: Give your cauliflower a flavorful makeover with a mix of fresh herbs and a touch of olive oil. Roasted until golden and tender, this dish is both healthy and delicious. The herbs infuse the cauliflower with aromatic flavors, making it a standout side.

Pairing Suggestions: Main Courses and Desserts

Main Courses:

Herb-Crusted Rack Of Lamb: Herb-Crusted Rack Of Lamb: Elevate your dining experience with a succulent rack of lamb encrusted in a fragrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted root vegetables and a red wine reduction sauce. The combination of the tender lamb and the crispy herb crust creates a symphony of flavors that will impress any guest.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight in the vibrant colors and flavors of stuffed bell peppers. These peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices, then baked to perfection. Topped with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish is both hearty and visually appealing. Serve with a side of mixed greens for a complete meal.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Imagine layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers interspersed with a luscious mascarpone cream. The cocoa powder dusted on top adds a touch of bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness. This Italian classic is a delightful way to end any meal, offering a rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Serve it chilled for the best experience.

Pavlova: Picture a crisp meringue shell with a marshmallow-like interior, topped with whipped cream and an array of fresh fruits. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, airy inside makes each bite a textural delight. The tartness of the fruits complements the sweetness of the meringue, creating a balanced and refreshing dessert.

Why trust this Grilled Fennel with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe:

This recipe for grilled fennel with parmesan and lemon is a delightful blend of flavors that will elevate your meal. The fennel becomes tender and slightly caramelized when grilled, while the parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor. A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice bring a refreshing brightness to the dish. Simple yet sophisticated, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust in the quality of these ingredients and the straightforward preparation to deliver a delicious and impressive side dish.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of parmigiano reggiano?

Absolutely! You can substitute with other hard cheeses like pecorino romano or even a good quality aged cheddar if you prefer.

What if I don't have an outdoor grill or grill pan?

No worries! You can use a regular skillet or even roast the fennel in the oven at 400°F until tender and slightly charred.

How do I know when the fennel is done grilling?

The fennel is done when it has a nice char on both sides and feels tender when you poke it with a fork. It usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the fennel ahead of time and then reheat it gently in the oven before serving. Just add the olive oil, lemon juice, and parmesan shavings right before serving.

What can I serve with grilled fennel?

Grilled fennel pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s great alongside grilled meats, fish, or even as part of a vegetarian spread with other grilled veggies and a nice salad.