Transform your everyday side dish game with the vibrant, flavorful charm of Sweet Fennel Greens. This quick and easy recipe highlights the tender fronds and stalks of fennel, sautéed to perfection in garlicky olive oil and elevated with a delicate drizzle of honey for a subtle sweetness. A splash of fresh lemon juice adds brightness, while a pinch of red pepper flakes offers optional heat for a customizable kick. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is a nutrient-packed addition to your table, pairing beautifully with grilled meats, roasted fish, or hearty vegetarian mains. Perfect for healthy eating enthusiasts or anyone looking to make the most of fennel's often-overlooked greens, this recipe is a delightful way to add bold flavor and sophisticated flair to any meal.
Thoroughly wash the fennel greens under cold water to remove any dirt. Drain and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Chop them into 2-inch pieces, ensuring you only use the tender fronds and stalks.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden (do not let it burn).
Add the chopped fennel greens to the skillet. Stir well to coat them in the garlicky oil.
Cook the fennel greens for 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are wilted and tender.
Drizzle the honey over the fennel greens and stir to evenly distribute the sweetness.
Add the fresh lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Stir once more to combine all the flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes if necessary.
Remove from heat and serve warm as a side dish to complement grilled meats, fish, or a hearty vegetarian meal.
Calories |
469 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.0 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.8 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1417 mg | 62% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 53.0 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.6 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 35.0 g | ||
| Protein | 6.1 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 236 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 3.8 mg | 21% | |
| Potassium | 1920 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.