Name: Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 large fennel bulb; ¼ cup Emmentaler cheese; salt; lemon pepper; 1 squeeze lemon juice

This pan-fried fennel with cheese recipe is a delightful combination of crisp, caramelized fennel bulbs topped with gooey emmentaler cheese. It's a simple yet sophisticated side dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Recipe

The key ingredient in this recipe is fennel, a vegetable that might not be a regular in your kitchen. Fennel has a unique, slightly sweet and licorice-like flavor that is wonderfully complemented by the nutty taste of Emmentaler cheese. If you're buying fennel from the supermarket, look for bulbs that are clean, firm, and solid, without signs of splitting, bruising, or spotting. Emmentaler cheese can be found in the cheese section, or you might find it with the specialty cheeses.

Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Ingredients

Olive oil: This is used to pan-fry the fennel until it's caramelized and crispy.

Fennel bulb: This is the star ingredient. Choose a large, firm bulb for best results.

Emmentaler cheese: This Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a delicious nutty flavor to the dish.

Salt: Used to season the fennel and bring out its natural flavors.

Lemon pepper: This provides a zesty kick that brightens up the dish.

Lemon juice: A squeeze of this adds acidity to balance out the rich cheese and sweet fennel.

One reader, Debi Dietrich says:

This pan-fried fennel with cheese recipe is a game-changer! The fennel's caramelized flavor combined with the gooey emmentaler cheese is simply divine. The dish is easy to make and bursting with flavor. I highly recommend trying it out for a delightful and unique culinary experience.

Debi Dietrich

Cooking Techniques for Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Recipe

Pan-frying the fennel: Involves cooking the fennel in a skillet with olive oil until it is golden brown and tender on both sides.

Melting the cheese: This involves placing the emmentaler cheese on top of the pan-fried fennel and allowing it to melt, creating a delicious cheesy topping.

Seasoning with salt and lemon pepper: This step involves adding salt and lemon pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Garnishing with chopped green tops: This step involves adding chopped green fennel tops as a garnish to add color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Drizzling with olive oil and lemon juice: After cooking, drizzle the pan-fried fennel with the remaining olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice to add brightness and acidity to the dish.

How To Make Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese

Fennels have a naturally sweet flavor with a very nice aroma. In this recipe, we are making pan-fried fennel with a generous amount of Emmentaler cheese.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspolive oildivided
1largefennel bulbsliced, green tops reserved
¼cupEmmentaler cheesegrated
salt
lemon pepper
1squeezelemon juice

Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add fennel in 1 layer. Pan-fry on both sides, turning a couple of times, about 7 minutes per side.
Top with Emmentaler and season with salt and lemon pepper.
Garnish with chopped green tops. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and lemon juice.

Nutrition

Calories: 293.28kcal
Fat: 26.15g
Saturated Fat: 6.13g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.62g
Carbohydrates: 11.42g
Fiber: 4.68g
Sugar: 5.86g
Protein: 5.85g
Cholesterol: 16.83mg
Sodium: 432.67mg
Calcium: 186.01mg
Potassium: 628.24mg
Iron: 1.27mg
Vitamin A: 113.75µg
Vitamin C: 18.52mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Pan-Frying Fennel with Cheese

When pan-frying fennel, it's important to ensure that the slices are of even thickness. This promotes even cooking and prevents some pieces from burning while others are undercooked. A mandoline slicer can be a useful tool for achieving this. Additionally, be patient and resist the urge to stir or flip the fennel too often. Letting it sit undisturbed allows it to develop a nice, caramelized crust.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese

Prep ahead: Chop and slice the fennel in advance to save time when you're ready to cook.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded emmentaler cheese to skip the step of grating it yourself.

Multi-task: While the fennel is pan-frying, use that time to prepare any additional side dishes or ingredients for your meal.

One-pan cooking: Consider using a larger skillet to cook the fennel alongside other ingredients, minimizing the number of dishes to clean up later.

Substitute Ingredients For Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in pan-frying.
emmentaler cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere cheese has a similar nutty flavor and melting properties, making it a good substitute for emmentaler in this recipe.
lemon pepper - Substitute with zest of 1 lemon and freshly ground black pepper: Using lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper can replicate the citrusy and peppery flavor of lemon pepper seasoning.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide a tangy acidity similar to lemon juice and complement the flavors of the dish.

Presentation Tips for Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese

Elevate the fennel: Slice the fennel bulb thinly and arrange it in a delicate and intricate pattern on the plate to showcase its natural beauty.
Emphasize the cheese: Shave the emmentaler cheese into thin, elegant curls and scatter them artfully over the pan-fried fennel to add a touch of sophistication and richness.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped green tops to introduce a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
Create a balanced composition: Drizzle the remaining olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice around the plate to add a subtle shine and bring a harmonious balance to the flavors.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Olive oil: A flavorful and versatile oil used for cooking and dressing.
Cheese grater: A kitchen tool used to grate cheese into fine pieces.
Lemon squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from lemons and other citrus fruits.
Knife: Essential for slicing and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Spatula: Used for flipping and turning fennel while pan-frying.
Citrus juicer: A tool designed specifically for juicing citrus fruits like lemons.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for This Recipe

Let the pan-fried fennel cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled fennel in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pan-fried fennel:
- Arrange the cooled fennel pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the fennel is frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen fennel pieces to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen pan-fried fennel will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, place the frozen fennel on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.
Note that the texture of the fennel may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pan-fried fennel in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fennel is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the fennel from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the pan-fried fennel in the microwave. Place the fennel in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the fennel is heated through and the cheese is melted. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the fennel to become soggy.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat the pan-fried fennel in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fennel and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it's heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will help to restore some of the crispiness that may have been lost during storage.
For a unique twist, try slicing the leftover pan-fried fennel and adding it to a salad or sandwich. The flavors of the fennel and cheese will add a delicious depth to your dish, and you won't even need to reheat it.
If you have a lot of leftover pan-fried fennel, consider turning it into a soup. Chop the fennel and simmer it in a pot with some vegetable broth, heavy cream, and your favorite herbs and spices. Blend the mixture until smooth and enjoy a comforting and flavorful soup.

Interesting Fact About Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese

Fennel is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed raw or cooked. It is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.

Is Making Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Cost-Effective?

This pan-fried fennel with cheese recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Fennel is an affordable and versatile vegetable, and the addition of emmentaler cheese adds a rich and savory flavor without breaking the bank. The use of simple ingredients like olive oil and lemon juice keeps the cost low while delivering a delicious dish. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it a budget-friendly option for a satisfying meal.

Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pan-fried fennel with cheese recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:

Fennel is a nutritious vegetable, rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals like potassium and calcium
Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants
Lemon juice adds vitamin C and enhances the absorption of iron from the fennel

However, there are some less healthy components:

The recipe uses a significant amount of olive oil, which is high in calories
Emmentaler cheese, while delicious, is high in saturated fat and sodium
Pan-frying, depending on the temperature and duration, may lead to the formation of harmful compounds

To make this recipe healthier, I would suggest the following tweaks:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in cooking, and use a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to finish the dish
Opt for a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella, or use a smaller amount of a strongly flavored cheese like Parmesan
Instead of pan-frying, try roasting the fennel in the oven with a little oil, which requires less fat and results in a caramelized flavor
Add other vegetables to the dish, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
Serve the fennel alongside a lean protein source and a whole grain to create a balanced meal

Editor's Opinion on This Fennel and Cheese Recipe

This recipe for pan-fried fennel with cheese is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The caramelized fennel pairs beautifully with the nutty and creamy emmentaler cheese, creating a dish that is both savory and satisfying. The addition of lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness to the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese. The use of olive oil enhances the overall flavor profile, making it a perfect side dish or appetizer. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to showcase the natural sweetness of fennel while incorporating the richness of cheese.

Enhance Your Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for balancing the flavors of the pan-fried fennel with cheese.

Grilled Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, a delightful accompaniment to the savory fennel dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots coated in a sticky, sweet honey glaze, adding a touch of natural sweetness to complement the rich flavors of the pan-fried fennel with cheese.

Similar Recipes to Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, then skewer and grill for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Braised Lamb Shanks: Slow-cook tender lamb shanks in a rich red wine and tomato sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone delicious. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Create a refreshing and healthy dessert by combining ripe mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds. Let it set in the fridge for a few hours and enjoy a guilt-free treat.

Recommended Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with This Recipe

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty citrus and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a flavorful filling with a mix of ground meat, rice, and spices. Stuff the bell peppers and bake until tender. Top with melted cheese for an extra indulgent touch.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of a luscious strawberry cheesecake, garnished with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of strawberry coulis for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Recipe:

This recipe for pan-fried fennel with cheese is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fennel brings a unique and refreshing taste, while the addition of emmentaler cheese adds a rich and creamy element. The dish is enhanced with a touch of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, creating a perfect balance of savory and citrusy notes. The careful pan-frying process ensures a tender yet crispy result, making this recipe a trustworthy choice for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Want to share your experience making this Pan-Fried Fennel with Cheese Recipe or discuss variations you've tried? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What type of cheese can I use as a substitute for emmentaler?

You can substitute emmentaler with Gruyère, Swiss cheese, or even provolone for a similar flavor and melting quality.

Can I use other seasonings besides salt and lemon pepper?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor.

How can I tell if the fennel is cooked through?

You can check if the fennel is cooked through by piercing it with a fork. It should be tender and easily pierced when it's done.

Can I use a different type of oil for pan-frying?

Yes, you can use other oils like vegetable oil or canola oil for pan-frying the fennel. Just ensure the oil has a high smoke point to prevent burning.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While the fennel is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and quickly pan-fry them just before serving to retain their texture and flavor.