I used fresh fennel for the first time on Sunday. Amazingly, even though I use fennel seed in recipes, I had never bought fresh fennel before. I actually had to verify with the sales clerk that fennel was what I thought it was!

Fennel has a light, fresh flavor that makes a great addition to many dishes, especially Italian food. I’ve always coupled fennel seed with beans – in chili and soups.  In fact on Sunday, I was cooking a bean and sausage gratin that was so much more flavorful when I added fresh fennel.

Not only does fennel add flavor but it’s also good for us.  It’s an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant and immune booster. It also has a good amount of fiber and potassium helpful in preventing cancer and heart disease. And that’s just scratching the surface – it also has calcium, magnesium and iron, among others. Not bad for this tasty vegetable that makes its appearance from fall to spring.

Do you use fresh fennel? What’s your favorite way to use it and your favorite recipe featuring it? Do share.

Filed under: Healthy Meals, High Quality Food, Vegetables