California Baked Broccoli
This flavorful baked broccoli dish features tender florets combined with a creamy, cheesy, and slightly savory custard, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of green onions, pimento, Parmesan, and sherry adds depth and a touch of elegance to a healthy vegetable side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Steam broccoli, green onion, and pimento in a 2-quart casserole dish sprayed with nonstick spray.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the eggs, evaporated skim milk, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, dry sherry, Italian mixed herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the blended mixture over the steamed vegetables.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending in a bit of ricotta cheese or swapping the fat-free cottage cheese with regular cottage cheese. If you're looking to add more flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the dish. Make sure not to overcook the broccoli while steaming to maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This California Baked Broccoli can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a fresh salad like Wild Strawberry Salad or a grain dish such as quinoa. A dollop of yogurt on top can add a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid drying out the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Baked Broccoli contains roughly 187 calories, with 8g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1407mg per serving (61% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli flowerets for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess water in the dish. This will help maintain the texture and flavor when baked.
What can I substitute for dry sherry?
If you don't have dry sherry, a splash of white wine or a combination of white wine vinegar and water can work as a substitute. Alternatively, you can use vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option, which will still add moisture and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, such as cottage cheese or sherry, are labeled gluten-free. This makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).