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Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.