Fish with Fennel is a light, elegant dish that beautifully pairs the delicate flavor of white fish with the sweet, anise-like notes of fennel. This dish is simple yet sophisticated, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The fish is gently roasted or sautéed alongside tender slices of fennel, with a splash of white wine and lemon juice to enhance the flavors. The result is a flavorful, aromatic meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod, halibut, or sea bass)
- 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine (or vegetable broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- If roasting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the Fennel:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced fennel and onion, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and fennel seeds (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Fish:
- If sautéing: Push the fennel mixture to one side of the skillet and add the fish fillets to the other side. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- If roasting: Transfer the sautéed fennel mixture to a baking dish and place the fish fillets on top. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Pour the white wine and lemon juice over the fish and fennel. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the fish is opaque and cooked through.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the fish from the heat or oven. Serve the fish fillets atop the fennel mixture, garnished with fresh dill or parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Fish with Fennel is a beautifully balanced dish that’s both light and flavorful, making it a wonderful option for any occasion. The subtle sweetness of the fennel complements the mild taste of the fish, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.
