Broccoli Italiano
Broccoli Italiano is a flavorful side dish featuring tender broccoli topped with seasoned bread crumbs, cheese, and garlic, then broiled until golden. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli until tender.
- Drain well.
- Arrange in a single layer in an oblong Pyrex dish.
- Mix bread crumbs and cheese, then sprinkle over broccoli.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter with pressed garlic in a small saucepan.
- Spoon the melted butter mixture over the bread crumb topping.
- Top with paprika.
- Put under broiler until crumbs are golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchy topping, consider adding some grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs to the seasoned bread crumbs. If you're out of Italian cheese, any mild cheese like mozzarella or provolone can work as a substitute. You can also enhance the flavor with herbs like oregano or basil. Fresh garlic can be used in place of pressed garlic, providing a more robust flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also serves as a fantastic side for Italian recipes like Eggplant Rollatini or Marilyn'S Vegetable Lasagna. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added color and flavor. It's perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, which helps to retain the crispiness of the topping. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread crumbs soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Italiano contains roughly 1480 calories, with 6g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 151g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 796mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli works well! Just make sure to steam or blanch it until tender before arranging it in the dish. The cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of broiling, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, broil it just before serving for a fresh, crispy topping.
What can I serve alongside Broccoli Italiano?
Broccoli Italiano complements a variety of dishes. Try it with pasta dishes like Sauce Fettucine Alfredo or as a vibrant side to roasted meats. A simple green salad or garlic bread would round out the meal beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).