Broccoli With Almonds
A savory stir-fry combining tender broccoli, crispy bacon, toasted almonds, and a hint of spice, perfect for a flavorful and hearty vegetable side or light main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon slices into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Place bacon pieces in a large skillet; cook over medium heat until bacon is golden brown, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked bacon to paper towels to drain; set aside.
- Pour off bacon fat from the skillet; return 1 tablespoon of bacon fat to the skillet.
- Cut garlic cloves into very thin slivers.
- Add olive oil and garlic to the skillet; sauté until garlic is golden brown, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
- Add water, raisins, salt, and red pepper flakes to the skillet; bring to a simmer.
- Add broccoli and diced tomatoes; cook until broccoli is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in sliced almonds and cooked bacon; cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance this dish, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. If you're short on time, you can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen, though the texture may differ slightly. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use smoked paprika for a similar flavor kick. To reduce calories, use turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli with almonds dish makes a fantastic side for grilled chicken or fish, enhancing any meal with its flavor and crunch. Try pairing it with Noodles And Ground Beef Casserole for a hearty family dinner. It can also be served as a light vegetarian main by adding quinoa or couscous for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Avoid overheating to prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Almonds contains roughly 851 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1979mg per serving (86% 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 other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, feel free to substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to toast them lightly before adding to enhance their taste. Each nut will provide a unique texture and flavor, making the dish versatile.
What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian option?
For a vegetarian version, you can use smoked tempeh or mushrooms to provide a savory flavor. Additionally, you might consider adding a touch of liquid smoke to mimic the bacon flavor if you want to keep it rich.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper. For a deeper flavor, you can also incorporate sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during the cooking process.
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).