CHEESY GREEN BEANS AND FENNEL

Cheesy Green Beans and Fennel image

Provided by @MakeItYours

Number Of Ingredients 13

2tablespoons butter, softened
1 1/2teaspoons fennel seeds, crushed
1 1/2teaspoons finely shredded lemon peel
3/4teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2teaspoon salt
3fennel bulbs
2cups water
1/2teaspoon salt
2pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1cup shredded Gruyere cheese (4 ounces)
1cup crumbled goat cheese (chevre) (4 ounces)
1cup seasoned fine dry bread crumbs
1/4cup butter, melted

Steps:

In a large bowl stir together 2 tablespoons melted butter, fennel seeds, lemon peel, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
Cut off and discard fennel stalks. Remove any wilted outer layers; cut a thin slice from base of each bulb. Cut bulbs into quarters; remove cores. Cut fennel lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a 4-quart Dutch oven combine the water and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to boiling. Add green beans. Return to boiling; reduce heat. Cook, covered, for 4 minutes. Add fennel. Cook , covered, for 4 to 6 minutes more or until vegetables are crisp-tender; drain. Add fennel and beans to butter mixture; toss gently to coat.
Transfer bean mixture to a 3-quart rectangular baking dish. Sprinkle with Gruyere cheese, goat cheese, and bread crumbs. Drizzle with 1/4 cup melted butter. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until crumbs are light brown and crisp. Serve warm.