Ingredients:

For the Bake:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Italian herbs, to taste
• Olive oil, for sautéing
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 egg, beaten
• 100g (3.52 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 tablespoons cornmeal
• 3-4 tablespoons semolina
• Mozzarella cheese, diced (amount to your preference)
• 30 ml cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Tomatoes:
   • Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs to taste. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture is well combined.
3. Prepare the Broccoli:
   • While the vegetables are cooking, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately place them in ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the blanched broccoli. Stir in the beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, cornmeal, and semolina. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
5. Assemble the Bake:
   • Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle diced mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Drizzle the cream over the top to add richness.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm as a light, satisfying dinner.

Possible Questions:

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
  • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
• Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?
  • Absolutely! You can use any cheese you like. Cheddar, gouda, or a mix of cheeses would work well.
• Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
  • Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving to ensure the top stays crispy.

Tips:

• Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a bit of heat if you like spicy food.
• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans to the vegetable mixture.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the flavor of this bake. Add them during the cooking process or as a garnish before serving.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness of the topping.
• Freezing: You can freeze the broccoli bake for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes or until heated through.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Sugar: 6g

Conclusion:

This Delicious Broccoli Bake is a wonderful addition to your recipe collection, offering a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. With its vibrant mix of vegetables, creamy cheese, and crispy top, it’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a great way to enjoy a light yet satisfying dinner, and with the option to make it ahead of time, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule. Enjoy this delightful bake and savor the taste of healthy, homemade comfort food!