Broccoli and Cheese Bake with Zucchini Sauce

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This Broccoli and Cheese Bake is a comforting, savory dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Packed with healthy ingredients like broccoli, oatmeal, and Gouda or mozzarella cheese, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Paired with a flavorful zucchini sauce, this dish offers a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s rich in vitamins, fiber, and protein.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

  • 1 broccoli (300-400 grams)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon salt (divided)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup oatmeal
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • Chives (to taste)
  • 1-2 cloves of garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup (200 grams) Gouda or mozzarella cheese (grated)
  • Olive oil (for greasing)

For the Sauce:

  • 1/2 onion (chopped)
  • 1 zucchini (chopped)
  • Celery or parsley (to taste)
  • Olive oil (for frying)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli:
    • Cut the broccoli into florets and boil them in salted water (using half the salt) for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain well and let cool slightly.
  2. Blend the Main Dish Mixture:
    • In a large bowl, mash the cooked broccoli with a fork until it’s broken down but still has some texture. Add the baking powder, eggs, oatmeal, sesame seeds, chives, garlic, remaining salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined.
  3. Add the Cheese:
    • Stir in the grated Gouda or mozzarella cheese. This will help bind the mixture and add a creamy, cheesy flavor.
  4. Form the Bake:
    • Grease a baking dish with olive oil and press the broccoli mixture evenly into it.
  5. Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the dish for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and firm to the touch.
  6. Prepare the Zucchini Sauce:
    • While the broccoli bake is in the oven, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Then add the zucchini and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Stir in the celery or parsley for extra flavor.
  7. Blend the Sauce:
    • Once the zucchini mixture is cooked, blend it into a smooth sauce using a blender or food processor. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve:
    • Cut the broccoli bake into slices and serve with the warm zucchini sauce drizzled over the top.

Tips for a Perfect Broccoli and Cheese Bake

  1. Substitutions: You can easily swap the oatmeal with breadcrumbs or almond flour for a different texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, ensure your oatmeal is certified gluten-free.
  2. Enhancing Flavor: For a more robust flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to the broccoli mixture. You can also use sharp cheddar instead of Gouda or mozzarella for a stronger taste.
  3. Texture Adjustments: For a smoother consistency in the bake, you can puree the broccoli before mixing it with the other ingredients. If you prefer a chunkier texture, leave the broccoli pieces larger.
  4. Vegetarian Option: This dish is naturally vegetarian, but you can make it even richer by adding a handful of chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
  5. Serving Ideas: Serve this bake with a fresh green salad, or pair it with roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Vitamin A: 25% DV
  • Vitamin C: 80% DV
  • Calcium: 25% DV
  • Iron: 10% DV

Possible Questions About the Recipe

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the recipe. Excess moisture can affect the texture of the bake.
  2. What other vegetables can I add to this bake?
    You can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers to the mix. Just make sure they are cooked and drained before adding them to the broccoli mixture.
  3. How do I store leftovers?
    Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
  4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, the zucchini sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
  5. Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
    To make this recipe vegan, replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed/chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), use dairy-free cheese, and ensure that all other ingredients are plant-based.

Conclusion

This Broccoli and Cheese Bake with Zucchini Sauce is a nutritious, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of cheesy broccoli and savory zucchini sauce makes it both wholesome and delicious. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side and is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

 

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