Roasting leeks is a wonderfully simple way to bring out their natural sweetness and add a delightful depth of flavour to your dishes. To start, preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit).

While the oven warms, take a few medium-sized leeks and trim the root ends and the dark green tops, leaving about 10–15 cm of the white and light green parts. Slice them in half lengthwise and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit. Once they’re clean, pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

Next, arrange the leeks cut side up on a roasting tray. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You might also like to add a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary for added fragrance.

Roast the leeks in the oven for around 25 to 30 minutes, until they are tender and golden brown, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The result will be beautifully caramelised leeks, perfect as a side dish, tossed through pasta, or as a tasty addition to salads. Enjoy the rich flavour and delightful texture that roasting brings!

Roasting fennel is a culinary delight that can transform this often-overlooked vegetable into a star of the table. When fennel is exposed to high heat, its natural sugars caramelise beautifully, enhancing its sweet, anise-like flavour. This cooking method also mellows the vegetable's raw crunch, producing a tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture that complements a wide variety of dishes.

Furthermore, the roasting process brings out a depth of flavour that can elevate any meal, whether served as a standalone side dish drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh herbs, or as an intriguing addition to salads and pasta dishes. Roasted fennel pairs beautifully with citrus, fish, and even hearty meats, making it a versatile component in your culinary repertoire.

Not only is fennel delightful to eat, but it’s also packed with health benefits, including digestive support and a wealth of vitamins. By incorporating roasted fennel into your meals, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nurturing your body. So, the next time you’re pondering what to cook, consider giving fennel the royal roasting treatment – it’s a choice you won’t regret!