Broccoli With Water Chestnuts
A hearty vegetable side featuring tender broccoli and crunchy water chestnuts, baked with flavorful mushroom soup and onion seasoning, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen chopped broccoli.
- Mix the broccoli with the water chestnuts, Lipton onion soup mix, mushroom soup, and margarine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using olive oil instead of margarine, and you can substitute low-sodium mushroom soup to reduce sodium content. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor. If you prefer fresh broccoli, just blanch it briefly before mixing it with the other ingredients for a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted chicken or grilled fish, such as Blackened Alaskan Halibut. Serve it alongside a light salad or creamy mashed potatoes for a balanced meal. It's also a perfect side dish for gatherings or family dinners, complementing any main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and bake the dish for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Water Chestnuts contains roughly 128 calories, with 4g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 474mg per serving (21% 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, you can definitely use fresh broccoli! Just blanch it in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes to soften slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and use a vegan cream soup alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
What can I serve with Broccoli With Water Chestnuts?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with various proteins. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or as a vibrant complement to a hearty vegetarian meal like Rutabaga Spinach Medley. It's a great addition to any holiday table or family feast.
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).