3 ways with ... fennel bulbs

A julienne of fennel and capsicums in a lemon vermouth saffron sauce served with monkfish and chargrilled scallops. Photo / Christchurch Star

Spring salads
Toss sliced fennel with spinach, baby carrot, grapefruit or orange (great with olives). In spring, pair with asparagus, lemon hazelnuts, radish and snowpeas or in a white bean salad. In early summer, shave with cucumber and Craisins, julienne with capsicum, or add to tomatoes and feta or green beans and shaved parmesan salads.

Fisherman's friend
Roasted or shaved fennel bulbs perfectly complement grilled octopus, seared tuna, salmon fillets or grilled scallop or prawns. Wrap sliced fennel with John Dory or snapper en papillote, with or without lemon or julienned vegetables.

Celebration roast
Fennel adds zing to the vegetables with roasted chicken, or caramelised with a pork or lamb rack.

Available from Countdown.