Broccoli Tomato Dish
A hearty broccoli and tomato casserole infused with cheeses, mushrooms, and wine, perfect for comforting family dinners and vegetable lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening in a saucepan.
- Sauté the mushrooms and garlic until tender.
- Add the tomato paste, water, and wine to the saucepan.
- Mix the dry ingredients (flour, salt, cinnamon) and gradually add to the saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the cheese and cook over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Layer the partially cooked broccoli and mushroom mixture in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the layered ingredients.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream along with the cheese. If you're short on time, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just steam it briefly before adding. You can substitute the mixed cheeses with any preferred cheese blend, or even omit cheese for a dairy-free version. To enhance flavor, add Italian herbs like oregano or basil.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Tomato Dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a mixed green salad to balance the flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving it with grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a great accompaniment to Susie'S Grape Blueberry Salad for a refreshing contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat as it can dry out the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Tomato Dish contains roughly 1429 calories, with 11g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1585mg per serving (69% 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 can be used instead of frozen. Just blanch the fresh broccoli in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, then proceed with the recipe. This will help maintain the vibrant color and fresh flavor of the broccoli.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you prefer, you can substitute the shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or olive oil for a healthier option. This will slightly alter the texture, making it a bit richer, but it will still work well in the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge when you bake it.
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).