First Fennel

We're growing fennel bulbs for the first time this year - wasn't sure what to expect, but they are a no- fuss, easy to grow veg - they seem to like lots of room, however - letting in as much light as possible. I love the refreshing anise-flavour and crunch of raw fennel! The fennel with arugula a nice combo. Now I'm looking for other ways to eat this fabulous veggie - I think next up will be a gratin. Here is the recipe I used for fennel with arugula, oranges and olives - simple, but delicious:It was a challenge to slice paper-thin, I may have to purchase a mandoline :-) 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 cup olive oil 1 bunch arugula 2 orange, peeled and segmented 1 bulb fennel bulb, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons sliced black olives Directions Whisk together the honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; slowly add the olive oil while continuing to whisk. Place the arugula in the bottom of a salad bowl; scatter the orange segments, fennel slices, and olives over the arugula; drizzle the dressing over the salad to serve. I love how the trimmed fennel bulb looks like a green heart~

And fennel is so good for you!: http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=23