Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large cauliflower
- 2 medium fennel bulbs with fronds
Toppings
- 2 tbsp panko bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely minced
Dressing & Seasoning
- 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
- 6 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the leaves and tough stems from the fennel, reserving the fronds for garnish. Cut the cauliflower into florets and slice the fennel bulbs thinly.
- Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, and half of the olive oil. Season with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Toss the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets and sliced fennel. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat evenly.
- Prepare breadcrumb topping: In a separate bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced fresh rosemary until combined.
- Arrange and top: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Drizzle the remaining olive oil evenly over the vegetables, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.
- Roast the vegetables: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and golden brown, and the topping is crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the vegetables from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fennel fronds for freshness, adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Using fresh fennel fronds as garnish adds a delicate anise flavor and visual appeal.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a light and crispy topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- White balsamic vinegar gives a subtle sweetness without overpowering the dish.
- To make this dish vegan, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
- Ensure the cauliflower and fennel pieces are uniform in size for even roasting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian