Recognized for its subtly sweet flavor reminiscent of licorice and anise, fennel is absolutely delicious. It’s also an incredibly versatile vegetable, with every part—crunchy bulb, fibrous stalk, feathery fronds, flavorful seeds, and even the pollen—is edible and great in any fennel recipes. Rich, hearty steaks get an earthy boost from this herb. A bit of fennel goes a long way in perfuming soups. And to use the rest of the bunch, incorporate pickled fennel recipes to give a tangy edge to meatier dishes. Soups, salads, sandwiches, and more—we’ve rounded up our favorite fennel recipes.
Tomatoes and cucumbers are a classic combination. Here, Eli Sussman of the Sussman Brothers modernizes the summer staple with heirloom varieties of the titular ingredients and brings them together with a caramelized fennel–lemon dressing. Get the recipe for Tomato and Cucumber Salad With Fennel Dressing »