Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. If you’re using parmesan cheese, add it now and stir until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Combine and Bake: In a large mixing bowl, toss the blanched broccoli, kale, and halved cherry tomatoes together. Pour the creamy sauce over the vegetables, mixing everything until well coated. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using).
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once the dish is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs of your choice, such as parsley or thyme, for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite main course.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. It can also be served alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or rice for a balanced vegetarian meal.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamy sauce and blanch the vegetables ahead of time. Store the blanched veggies and sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, combine everything, bake, and enjoy.
Storing Leftovers: Any leftover creamy baked broccoli with tomatoes and kale can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven until heated through. The dish may lose some of its creaminess upon reheating, so you can add a splash of milk or cream to restore its texture.
Freezing: If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to freeze it before baking. Once assembled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the dish is heated through.
Variants:
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage to the dish. Simply stir the protein into the vegetables before baking for an extra boost of flavor.
Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based cream alternative and omit the parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast can be used as a cheesy substitute for extra flavor.
Cheese Lovers: If you love cheese, add shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère to the top of the dish before baking for a delicious cheesy crust.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy spice, add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle more red pepper flakes on top before baking to give this dish an extra punch.
Add Nuts: To add some crunch, sprinkle some chopped toasted almonds or pine nuts over the baked dish before serving.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish. You may also want to reduce the baking time slightly.
Q: Can I substitute the kale with another leafy green?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens. Just make sure to remove any tough stems before using.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time for a party?
A: Yes, you can prepare this dish up to the point of baking, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it perfect for meal prep or when you’re entertaining guests.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Just keep in mind that the consistency might vary slightly.
Q: Can I make this dish spicier?
A: Yes! You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced fresh chili peppers to the dish for a spicier flavor profile.
Conclusion:
Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines simple ingredients for a flavor-packed side. With a creamy sauce, hearty vegetables, and an irresistible golden top, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside a family dinner or serving it at your next gathering, it’s a perfect choice for anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying meal. Experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make it your own, and enjoy this comforting vegetable bake!
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