Roasting this crunchy licorice-scented bulb tames its licorice flavor and brings out its sweet, mellow side. The caramelized wedges go perfectly with roast chicken, lamb, or even salmon fillet.
Get ready: Preheat the oven to 400° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the fennel: Trim the root end of the fennel bulb and cut the stems off. Slice each bulb in half from the stem side to the root. Then cut each half into 4 wedges.
Season the fennel: Place the fennel wedges in a bowl and add the olive oil, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss gently with your hands to thoroughly coat the fennel.
Roast the fennel: Spread the fennel wedges on the prepared baking sheet in one layer. Roast for 15 minutes, or until the wedges have started to turn golden. Sprinkle on the parmesan, coating the wedges evenly. Roast for 10-15 minutes more, until the cheese is nicely browned and the fennel is browned and caramelized in spots.
Serve and enjoy: Transfer the fennel to a serving platter. Sprinkle a few drops of good balsamic vinegar on top, if you like, and serve.
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Notes
To further enhance the fennel flavor, sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel seed into the bowl when tossing the wedges with the other ingredients.
Roasted fennel is delicious on pizza. Top your favorite pizza dough with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and dollops of ricotta cheese. Scatter pieces of fennel on top and bake.