Broccoli With Lemon Cream
Bright and creamy broccoli with lemon and almonds offers a flavorful, citrus-infused side perfect for family dinners or gatherings that enjoy a nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and cook broccoli for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Place cooked broccoli in a greased 12 x 8 x 2-inch casserole.
- In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, milk, lemon rind, lemon juice, and ginger.
- Cook over low heat until the cream cheese melts and mixture is smooth.
- Stir in butter until melted.
- Pour the lemon cream sauce over the broccoli.
- Sprinkle slivered almonds on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and almonds are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or try substituting the slivered almonds with toasted pine nuts for a different texture. If you're short on time, pre-steamed broccoli can be used, but ensure it is not overcooked to maintain its vibrant color. For a richer flavor, add a dash of Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce before pouring it over the broccoli.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve alongside a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon cream sauce. For a vegetarian option, consider serving with quinoa or a hearty grain salad. It also makes a great side for holiday meals, complementing flavors of roasted meats.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broccoli with lemon cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Lemon Cream contains roughly 292 calories, with 12g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (169% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture. The cooking time may be slightly reduced since frozen broccoli is often blanched before packaging.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese substitute. Greek yogurt can also work, but it will alter the flavor slightly, adding a tangy note.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or shallots to the cream sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also be stirred in just before serving for an aromatic touch. A splash of white wine can elevate the sauce as well.
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).