Best Easy Finocchi Gratinati Recipe

Fennel baked with Parmigiano and butter until golden is a refined vegetarian side. This fresh mediterranean dish is healthy, low-calorie, and a family-friendly clean eats accompaniment.

Cook 45 min Difficulty EASY 165 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #low carb #family friendly
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • fennel bulbs 2 pieces
  • Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, freshly grated 0.5 cup
  • whole milk 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • unsalted butter 3 tbsp
  • fine sea salt 0.5 tsp
  • freshly ground black pepper 0.25 tsp
  • nutmeg 0.13 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 9 g 22%
Protein 7 g 17%
Fat 11 g 61%
Serving size 160g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly butter a 2-quart baking dish for best browning and nonstick results.

  2. 2

    Trim the fennel bulbs, removing stalks and tough outer layer. Cut bulbs lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slices for even cooking.

  3. 3

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fennel slices and blanch for 6 minutes until just tender but not falling apart. Drain well and pat dry with a towel.

  4. 4

    Layer the fennel slices evenly in the prepared baking dish. Season with half the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, then pour milk over the top.

  5. 5

    Dot the fennel with butter and sprinkle parmesan cheese to fully cover. Finish with the rest of the seasoning.

  6. 6

    Bake in the center of the oven for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. If needed, broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.

  7. 7

    Let rest 5 minutes before serving for the juices to settle, ensuring clean servings and intensified flavor.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Finocchi Gratinati recipe?
The star ingredient is fresh fennel bulbs, which give the dish its uniquely sweet, aromatic flavor and tender texture. When paired with Parmigiano-Reggiano and butter, fennel provides a refined yet comforting foundation that defines Finocchi Gratinati.
Q. How can I achieve the perfect golden crust on Finocchi Gratinati?
To ensure a beautifully golden topping, generously sprinkle Parmigiano-Reggiano over the blanched fennel before baking and dot with butter. Bake uncovered at 400°F, and if more browning is desired, broil briefly at the end while watching closely to prevent burning.
Q. How do I prevent the fennel from becoming mushy?
Blanch the fennel slices only until just tender—about 6 minutes—then drain and pat dry before assembling. This step and brief oven baking keep the fennel from overcooking, so you get a pleasingly soft but intact bite.
Q. How many calories and what is the macronutrient balance per serving?
Each serving contains around 165 kcal, with about 9g carbohydrates (22%), 7g protein (17%), and 11g fat (61%). This balance makes the dish low in carbs and moderate in protein, ideal for light, vegetarian meals.
AI 채팅 아이콘