Are you tired of the same old campfire snacks? Craving something healthy and delicious that's surprisingly easy to make over an open flame? Then look no further! This Campfire Carlsbad Broccoli recipe is a game-changer. It's a quick, easy, and surprisingly sophisticated side dish (or even a light meal!) that will impress your fellow campers and elevate your next outdoor adventure. Forget foil packets; this method delivers perfectly charred broccoli with a delightful smoky flavor. Get ready for a taste of gourmet campfire cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Carlsbad dressing (or your favorite creamy dressing – see variations below!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli head into bite-sized florets. Make sure they're relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, Carlsbad dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the florets are evenly coated.
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Campfire Cooking: Prepare your campfire for indirect heat. You want a bed of hot coals rather than a roaring flame. Place the broccoli florets in a cast iron skillet or a heavy-duty oven-safe skillet. Alternatively, you can use a grill basket designed for vegetables.
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Cook to Perfection: Cook the broccoli over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and slightly charred. The cooking time will depend on the heat of your fire, so keep a close eye on it.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the skillet from the fire and serve the campfire Carlsbad broccoli immediately. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing, creating a truly unforgettable taste.
Cooking Tips for Campfire Success:
- Indirect Heat is Key: Avoid direct flames to prevent burning. Use a grill basket or place the skillet over the coals, not directly in the flames.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a large amount of broccoli, cook it in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times will vary depending on the heat of your fire and the size of your broccoli florets. Check frequently for doneness.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Variations:
- Spicy Carlsbad Broccoli: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Please!: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese over the broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra cheesy treat.
- Different Dressings: Experiment with other creamy dressings like ranch, thousand island, or even a simple vinaigrette.
- Add-ins: Roasted vegetables like bell peppers or onions would make fantastic additions to this recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on dressing and additions)
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Campfire Carlsbad Broccoli recipe is the perfect blend of healthy eating and delicious campfire cooking. It's a simple recipe that's sure to become a staple at your next outdoor gathering. Enjoy the ease and the amazing flavor of this quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekend camping trips! It's a healthy meal the whole family will love. From easy recipes to homemade cooking, this recipe hits all the marks for delicious dishes and best recipes for any skill level. Give it a try and let us know what you think!