Fennel, Ham, and Mozzarella Bake

This Fennel, Ham, and Mozzarella Bake combines the sweet, anise-like flavor of fennel with savory ham and creamy mozzarella, creating a comforting dish with a delightful blend of textures. It’s a perfect balance of traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist, making it a fantastic main course for any occasion. This dish is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients:

• 2 large fennel bulbs, sliced
• 200g cooked ham, diced
• 250g fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced fennel and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it begins to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the fennel mixture on the bottom.
5. Add half of the diced ham on top of the fennel layer, followed by half of the mozzarella slices.
6. Repeat the layering with the remaining fennel, ham, and mozzarella.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.