Fennel microgreens have a mild, fresh flavour that combines subtle notes of anise, liquorice, and sweet fennel bulb, but with a lighter, more delicate profile. Their crisp texture and aromatic quality make them versatile and delicious in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for pairing fennel microgreens:
1. Salads
Fennel microgreens add a fresh, slightly sweet, and herbal crunch to salads. They pair well with citrus fruits like orange, grapefruit, or lemon, as the sweetness and acidity complement each other. You can also combine them with other microgreens, arugula, or mixed greens for a more complex salad.
2. Seafood Dishes
These microgreens are a perfect match for seafood, especially fish like salmon, tuna, or white fish, as well as shellfish like shrimp and scallops. Their light, anise-like flavour enhances the natural sweetness of seafood without overpowering it. Try sprinkling fennel microgreens over a fresh seafood salad or fish tacos.
3. Vegetable Dishes
Fennel microgreens pair well with roasted or grilled vegetables, particularly those with sweet, earthy flavours such as roasted beets, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Their aniseed flavour also complements fennel bulb dishes, offering a fresh contrast to the cooked fennel.
4. Cheese
Fennel microgreens are delicious with cheeses, especially mild, creamy ones like goat cheese, ricotta, or fresh mozzarella. They also go well with aged cheeses such as Parmesan or Pecorino. Try them as a garnish on a cheese platter or incorporate them into a cheese sandwich or wrap.
5. Sandwiches & Wraps
Their mild anise flavour is a great addition to sandwiches or wraps, especially those with smoked meats like turkey, chicken, or pastrami. They also pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or creamy spreads like hummus or avocado.
6. Citrus-Based Dishes
Fennel microgreens' subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with citrus flavours, so consider using them in dishes with lemon, lime, or orange, such as citrus vinaigrettes, seafood ceviches, or fruit salads.
7. Grain Bowls
Add fennel microgreens to grain bowls featuring quinoa, farro, or brown rice. Their crisp texture and delicate flavour work well with roasted vegetables, legumes, and a light dressing. Consider pairing them with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty, flavorful dish.
8. Herb-Infused Sauces or Dressings
Fennel microgreens can be incorporated into herb-infused sauces or creamy dressings, like a fennel and lemon vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing. They add a fresh, herbal note to these sauces that complements salads or grilled meats.
9. Tacos or Wraps
Their crisp texture and subtle anise flavour are a wonderful addition to tacos, especially fish tacos, chicken wraps, or veggie wraps. Their freshness balances out the richness of the fillings.
10. Egg Dishes
Fennel microgreens also work well as a garnish on eggs, particularly in omelets, scrambled eggs, or on a soft-boiled or poached egg. They add brightness and a gentle herbal note that pairs well with the richness of eggs.