Tired of the same old steamed broccoli? This Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale recipe is here to rescue your weeknight dinners! It's a healthy, delicious, and surprisingly easy dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Get ready to elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet impressive recipe – perfect for a quick and healthy dinner or a satisfying side dish. It's one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 5 oz fresh kale, chopped (remove thick stems)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for vegan option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
Prep the veggies: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets, halved tomatoes, and chopped kale with olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
Bake it: Spread the vegetable mixture in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
Creamy finish: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), ensuring everything is well combined. Return the dish to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and is bubbly.
Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately. This creamy baked broccoli is delicious on its own or as a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or roasted meats.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: This ensures even cooking and prevents the vegetables from steaming instead of roasting.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on your oven and the size of your broccoli florets, you might need to adjust the cooking time. Check for doneness with a fork. The broccoli should be tender but still retain a slight bite.
- Add some spice: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture.
- Boost the flavor: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds brightness and acidity, complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, cheddar, or mozzarella.
- Herbs and spices: Use your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Thyme, rosemary, or basil would all be delicious additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 8-10 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 5-7 grams
This creamy baked broccoli recipe is a simple, healthy, and flavorful addition to your weekly meal plan. It's a great way to enjoy your vegetables and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty side dish. Give it a try and let me know what you think!