Fennel Gratin
Fennel Gratin (Gratin di Finocchi) is a comforting baked dish from Italy, typically featuring thinly sliced fennel layered with béchamel sauce, Parmesan cheese, and sometimes breadcrumbs, then baked until golden and bubbly. The dish highlights the natural sweetness and mild anise flavor of fennel, which mellows beautifully when cooked. It's a popular side or light main in Italian home cooking, especially in regions where fennel is abundant.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is moderate in calories (around 250-350 per serving), with a balance of carbohydrates from the fennel and dairy, and protein from the cheese and béchamel. It provides fiber, vitamin C, potassium from the fennel, and calcium from the cheese, making it a nutritious yet indulgent option.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Vitamin K | 30 mcg |
| Folate | 40 mcg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Fennel Gratin showcases the Italian tradition of transforming simple, seasonal vegetables into elegant dishes through slow baking and rich, creamy sauces. Nutritionally, fennel is prized for its digestive benefits and unique phytonutrients, which are preserved even when baked, offering a flavorful way to enjoy a vegetable often overlooked in other cuisines.
