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Hey, veggie villains and flavor seekers! It’s April 12th, and we’re celebrating one of the most unique food holidays: Licorice Day! Now, before you run away screaming, let me tell you a secret: I don't mean that sticky, black candy.

I mean licorice aromatics—the amazing, warm, sophisticated spices that just smell like an Italian herb garden. We are taking the subtle flavors of fennel and star anise to create the most incredible side dish ever: Star Anise & Fennel Roasted Root Vegetables.

This is the ultimate sophisticated side dish that takes all your humble carrots and parsnips and gives them a huge flavor glow-up. The fennel gets sweet when roasted, and the star anise adds this warm, amazing hint of licorice without being overpowering. It’s easy, healthy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy holiday meal.

Let’s get this gorgeous, aromatic roast made!

The "Licorice" Roasted Veggies Recipe

This recipe is so simple, the oven does all the work. The secret is not to crowd the pan!

What You Need (The Goods):

• 1 pound mixed root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, and potatoes), peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces

• 1 large fennel bulb, trimmed and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges (The veggie with the subtle licorice flavor!)

• 3 tablespoons Good Quality Olive Oil

• 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper

• 4 whole Star Anise Pods (The elegant spice!)

• Optional: A drizzle of honey for the last 5 minutes of roasting

The Simple Steps:

1. Prep the Veggies: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss all the chopped root vegetables and fennel wedges with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are coated well.

2. Add the Spice: Pour the vegetables out onto a large, parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer and not overlapping—this is key for getting them roasted, not steamed. Place the whole star anise pods right on the pan amongst the vegetables.

3. Roast to Perfection: Roast for 25–35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender on the inside and caramelized and slightly browned on the outside. (If you want a hint of sweetness, drizzle with honey and cook for the last 5 minutes).

4. Serve & Glow-Up: Remove the star anise pods (we don’t want to eat them, just flavor the dish!). Transfer the roasted veggies to a serving dish. The fennel will be soft and sweet, and the whole dish will have an amazing, warm, sophisticated aroma.

Don't Be Shy, Let's Connect!

Did this sophisticated side dish change the way you think about licorice? I wanna see your beautiful, colorful roast!

1. Comment below and tell me your favorite root vegetable to roast (mine is always the parsnip!).

2. Tag Us! Post a photo of your Roasted Root Vegetables on Instagram or TikTok and tag @OnManyOccasions so we can feature your incredible creation!

3. Free Gift! Need more fun, holiday-themed recipes for the rest of the year? Download our FREE 2026 Editorial Calendar right now to plan your year of deliciousness!