1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Blanch Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
- Prepare Kale: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Kale: Add the chopped kale to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Heat Cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. If using flour to thicken the sauce, whisk it into the cream and cook for 1-2 minutes until it starts to thicken.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season: Add the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the Dish:
- Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, cooked kale, and cherry tomatoes.
- Add Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish (about 8×8 inches).
4. Bake:
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Broil (Optional): For a crispier top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Cool Slightly: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve: Enjoy warm as a side dish or light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted poultry, or as a standalone vegetarian dish.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale:
- Vegetable Texture: Blanching the broccoli helps retain its vibrant color and texture. Be careful not to overcook it.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Whisk it into the cream before adding the cheese.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère, cheddar, or a cheese blend can add different flavors.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the creamy texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines creamy sauce with nutritious vegetables. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of veggies in one delicious bake. Enjoy this versatile and satisfying recipe!