Broccoli and Mushrooms in Garlic-Soy Sauce with Herbed Toast

This savory dish combines tender broccoli and mushrooms coated in a flavorful garlic-soy sauce, paired perfectly with crispy herbed toast. It’s a quick, easy-to-make meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for a light dinner or side dish, this recipe is bursting with flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

Preparation Time

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Total time: 35 minutes

Ingredients
For the Broccoli and Mushrooms:

  • 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets (approximately 300 g)
  • 300 g (10.5 oz) mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 50 ml (1/4 cup) water
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Herbed Toast:

  • 3 slices of bread
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
  • Salt, to taste

Directions
Prepare the Broccoli:

  • Cut the broccoli into florets and rinse thoroughly.
  • Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and blanch the broccoli for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Mushrooms:

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  • Increase the heat slightly and add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender.
  • Mix the cornstarch with 50 ml of water until smooth. Add this mixture, along with soy sauce, salt, and black pepper, to the mushrooms. Stir well and cook until the sauce thickens.

Combine Broccoli and Mushrooms:

  • Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet with the mushrooms.
  • Toss everything together over medium heat until the broccoli is heated through and coated in the sauce.

Prepare the Herbed Toast:

  • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Brush slices of bread with olive oil and rub them with minced garlic.
  • Sprinkle with chopped dill, parsley, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt.
  • Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the broccoli and mushrooms with herbed toast on the side for a balanced meal.
  • Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the broccoli and mushrooms for added brightness.
  • Pair with a bowl of soup or a side of rice for a heartier meal.

Cooking Tips

  • Avoid overcooking the broccoli to maintain its bright green color and slight crunch.
  • Use a non-stick skillet for even cooking and to prevent sticking.
  • Experiment with different herbs for the toast, such as thyme or oregano, to suit your preference.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
  • Mushrooms are a low-calorie source of antioxidants and essential minerals.
  • Olive Oil adds heart-healthy fats to the dish.
  • Herbs like dill and parsley provide vitamins and antioxidants.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-Friendly
  • Can be made vegan by using a plant-based bread option.
  • Dairy-free and nut-free.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 5 g

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
  • Freezer: Not recommended for freezing due to the texture changes of broccoli and toast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • A healthy, well-balanced dish packed with vegetables and whole ingredients.
  • The garlic-soy sauce adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the vegetables perfectly.
  • Crispy herbed toast elevates the meal, adding crunch and aroma.

Conclusion
This Broccoli and Mushrooms in Garlic-Soy Sauce with Herbed Toast is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. The combination of tender, saucy vegetables and crispy toast creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you serve it as a light main course or a side dish, it’s sure to become a household favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before cooking.
  2. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas would be great additions.
  3. What bread works best for herbed toast?
    Use sturdy bread like sourdough or ciabatta for the best results.
  4. Can I make this dish vegan?
    Yes, use vegan bread and check that your soy sauce is vegan-friendly.
  5. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
    Coconut aminos or tamari are good gluten-free alternatives.
  6. How do I prevent the mushrooms from becoming watery?
    Cook them on high heat to evaporate excess moisture.
  7. Can I make the herbed toast in advance?
    Yes, store it in an airtight container once cooled. Reheat briefly before serving.
  8. Can I skip the cornstarch?
    Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. You can reduce the water slightly instead.
  9. What cheese pairs well with this dish?
    Parmesan or feta cheese would complement the flavors nicely.
  10. Can I use gluten-free bread?
    Yes, gluten-free bread works perfectly for this recipe.