Sauteed Fennel and Leeks

Transform simple vegetables into a gourmet delight with this Sautéed Fennel and Leeks recipe, a quick and easy side dish bursting with flavor. Tender fennel strips and sweet, aromatic leeks are caramelized in a luscious blend of olive oil and butter, enhanced by the subtle warmth of minced garlic. A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, while a sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of color and freshness. Ready in just 35 minutes, this elegant vegetable medley pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or can even be served over quinoa or rice for a light vegetarian main course. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of fennel and leeks while showcasing simple cooking at its finest.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 whole fennel bulb
• 2 whole leeks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Trim the stalks and fronds off the fennel bulbs and cut each bulb in half lengthwise. Remove the core and slice the fennel into thin strips.

Step 2

Trim the root ends of the leeks and remove the dark green tops. Slice the white and light green parts into thin rings and rinse thoroughly to remove any grit.

Step 3

Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.

Step 4

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter is melted and foamy.

Step 5

Add the fennel to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften and caramelize at the edges.

Step 6

Stir in the leeks and garlic. Cook for another 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until both the fennel and leeks are tender and slightly golden.

Step 7

Season the mixture with salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 8

Drizzle the lemon juice over the sautéed vegetables and mix well.

Step 9

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.

Step 10

Serve warm as a side dish or over grains like quinoa or rice for a light, flavorful meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(713.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	622.6

Total Fat 41.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.8g
Cholesterol 32.9mg	0%
Sodium 1534.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 62.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.1g	0%
Total Sugars 25.9g
Protein 9.0g	0%

Vitamin D 2.2IU	0%
Calcium 358.8mg	0%
Iron 8.1mg	0%
Potassium 2349.9mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 56.4%

Protein: 5.5%

Carbs: 38.1%