Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale

Introduction

Welcome to this delicious recipe for Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale. This dish combines the nutritious goodness of broccoli and kale with the tangy flavors of tomatoes, all baked to perfection in a creamy sauce. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a tasty vegetarian main course, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

To prepare Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 heads of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, arrange the broccoli florets, kale leaves, and cherry tomato halves.

Keyword: Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale

Step 2: Making the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the ingredients.

Keywords: Creamy Baked, Broccoli, Tomatoes, Kale

Step 3: Baking the Dish

Pour the creamy sauce over the vegetables in the baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Keywords: Creamy Baked Broccoli, Tomatoes, Kale, Baked

Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
• Swap the Parmesan cheese for cheddar or mozzarella.
• Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Include other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Tips

To make this recipe even more flavorful and nutritious, consider the following tips:

• Blanch the broccoli and kale before baking to retain their vibrant colors.
• Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best taste.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Serve the dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is a delightful dish that combines the goodness of vegetables with a creamy and flavorful sauce. This recipe is versatile, allowing for various adaptations and additions to personalize it to your liking. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more greens into your diet, this recipe is a must-try. Serve it as a side dish or as a main course, and enjoy the delicious flavors that this dish has to offer.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli and kale for this recipe?

A: While fresh vegetables are recommended for the best texture and taste, you can use frozen broccoli and kale if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before baking.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

A: Yes, you can use a lighter alternative such as half-and-half or milk, but keep in mind that the creamy texture and richness of the dish may be slightly compromised.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.