Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• Extra virgin olive oil
• A small bunch of young kale
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 7 cloves of garlic, minced
• 12 cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 knob of butter
• Salt, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• 150 ml heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon flour
• Crushed mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broccoli:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
   • In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil until evenly coated.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat a small amount of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
3. Add Tomatoes and Kale:
   • Add the halved tomatoes and young kale to the pan.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and the kale begins to wilt.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   • Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the knob of butter to the empty space.
   • Once melted, add the flour to the butter and stir to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens.
   • Season with salt and dried thyme.
5. Combine and Bake:
   • Add the broccoli florets to the pan and toss with the creamy sauce.
   • Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
   • Sprinkle the top with crushed mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
   • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy as a hearty main dish or a side.
• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad.

Recipe Tips:

• Ensure the broccoli is well-coated with olive oil for even roasting.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce for extra flavor.
• Use freshly grated mozzarella for the best melting quality.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Broccoli is rich in fiber and vitamins C and K.
• Kale boosts vitamin and antioxidant intake.
• Garlic and onions offer immune-boosting properties.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian
• Substitute gluten-free flour to make the dish gluten-free.

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a preheated oven or microwave before serving.

Why This Recipe Works:

• It’s a delicious way to add more vegetables to your diet.
• The creamy sauce and melted cheese make for a comforting meal.
• Versatile enough to serve as a main or a side dish.

In Summary:

This Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale offers a perfect balance of health and indulgence with its combination of fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious dish with family and friends.