Fennel is a lightly sweet tasting, slightly anise, crunchy, refreshing vegetable that originated in Greece. Today, fennel is commonly grown in eastern Europe and most of the areas surrounding the Mediterranean sea. Its unique flavour and refreshing qualities make it an excellent side dish, salad vegetable or snack item. Fennel contains vitamin B3 and is very high in vitamin C, in addition to being a valuable source of iron, fibre, calcium, copper, manganese, potassium, molybdenum, folate, phosphorus, magnesium and pantothenic acid. Fennel provides the best health benefits when eaten raw. Fennel has the capability to lower high blood pressure, ward off colon cancer and support proper functioning of the immune system. In addition to these benefits, fennel is also a water-soluble antioxidant which removes free radicals from your body. You can slice raw fennel and add it to your favourite salads or create a salad specifically built around the fennel itself. Slice the fennel and add mint leaves, tomatoes and other vegetables for a tasty treat. You can always eat it plain and raw to indulge in the unique flavour. Dipping slices of fennel into your favourite hummus or vegetable dip is also delightful. Fennel makes an excellent combination with sautéed fish dishes, especially salmon. Chew on a few fennel seeds to freshen your breath. They taste just like licorice.Image: pilipphoto/Shutterstock