What To Know
- With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a crispy and aromatic side dish that will complement any main course.
- Spread the fennel slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Remove the fennel from the air fryer and serve immediately as a side dish or as a topping for salads, soups, or sandwiches.
Are you looking for a quick and easy way to elevate your meals with a burst of flavor? Look no further than this air fryer fennel recipe! This versatile vegetable, with its slightly sweet and anise-like taste, is perfect for roasting in an air fryer. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a crispy and aromatic side dish that will complement any main course.
Ingredients
- 1 large fennel bulb, trimmed and sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the fennel: In a large bowl, combine the fennel slices, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Air fry: Spread the fennel slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
4. Shake the basket: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
5. Serve: Remove the fennel from the air fryer and serve immediately as a side dish or as a topping for salads, soups, or sandwiches.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Fennel
- Choose the right fennel: Select a large, firm fennel bulb with no blemishes or bruises.
- Slice evenly: Cut the fennel into uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh herbs: Dried thyme can be substituted with fresh thyme for a more intense flavor.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the fennel, such as rosemary, oregano, or paprika.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Spread the fennel slices in a single layer to allow for proper airflow and even cooking.
Health Benefits of Fennel
Fennel is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is a good source of:
- Vitamin C: Essential for immune function and skin health
- Potassium: Supports blood pressure regulation and hydration
- Fiber: Promotes digestive health and satiety
- Antioxidants: Protect cells from damage
Versatile Fennel Uses
Air-fried fennel is a versatile vegetable that can be used in various dishes:
- Salads: Add crispy fennel to salads for a burst of flavor and crunch.
- Soups: Roast fennel and add it to soups for a depth of flavor.
- Sandwiches: Top sandwiches with air-fried fennel for a savory and aromatic touch.
- Pasta dishes: Sauté air-fried fennel with other vegetables and add it to pasta dishes for a flavorful addition.
- Pizza toppings: Sprinkle air-fried fennel on pizzas for a unique and delicious topping.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Fennel
- Storage: Store leftover air-fried fennel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat air-fried fennel, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use frozen fennel in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen fennel. Thaw it completely before tossing it with the seasonings and air frying.
Q: How do I know when the fennel is done cooking?
A: The fennel is done cooking when it is tender and slightly browned on the edges. It should easily pierce with a fork.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables to this recipe, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. Simply slice the vegetables and toss them with the fennel before air frying.
