The scientific name: foeniculum is from the Latin word for "fragrant hay." Fennel has been around for centuries and was known to the ancient Chinese, Indian, Egyptian, and Greek civilizations. During the middle ages, fennel was used by the poor as an appetite suppressant that was eaten during days of fasting, while the rich used it as a spice for fish and vegetable dishes.
Today we will provide a delicious salad (vegan friendly) that is easy and quick to make.
Ingredients
- 2 fennel bulbs , sliced lengthways into 1cm-thick pieces
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp finely chopped black Kalamata olive
- 1 garlic clove , crushed
- juice 1 lemon
- small handful each parsley and basil, finely chopped
Method
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STEP 1
Heat a BBQ or griddle pan. Toss the fennel in 1 tbsp of the oil, coating well. Cook for 5 mins on each side until golden brown and charred.
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STEP 2
To make the dressing, put the olives, garlic, lemon juice and remaining oil in a bowl. Add the chopped herbs and combine. Lay the fennel on a platter and pour over the dressing. Eat warm or at room temperature.
This salad brings you many health benefits. Today fennel is commonly used to treat amenhorrea, angina, asthma, heartburn, high blood pressure, and boost sexual desire. Because fennel is a mild appetite suppressant, it is used to improve the kidneys, spleen, liver, and lungs.
