Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Cook Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch the 2 cups of broccoli florets in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. If using frozen, just thaw them.
- Sauté Kale: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 2 cups of chopped kaleand sauté for about 3-5 minutes until wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, sautéed kale, and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes (or diced tomatoes). Toss gently to mix.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. If you want a bit of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
- Combine Vegetables and Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the vegetable mixture and stir gently until everything is well coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will help the creamy sauce thicken slightly.
- Serve Warm: Serve the Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale warm as a delicious side dish to your favorite main courses. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Creamy Baked Broccoli
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for part of the heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add Protein: For a complete meal, add cooked chicken or chickpeas to the vegetable mixture before baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is not only a colorful and appetizing dish but also a healthy addition to your table. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is simple to prepare and packed with nutrients. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal! Happy cooking!