Cashew Topped Broccoli
Creamy broccoli topped with crunchy salted cashews and melted Monterey Jack cheese, baked in a convenient oven bag for a flavorful, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place a large size (14 x 20-inch) oven cooking bag in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the partially thawed broccoli spears in the bag, placing stems to the outside of the baking dish.
- Combine the cream of celery soup, salted cashew nuts, instant minced onion, and grated Monterey Jack cheese; spoon the mixture over the broccoli spears.
- Close the bag with a nylon tie, rubber bands, string, or a 1/2-inch strip cut from the open end of the bag.
- Make 6 half-inch slits in the top of the bag.
- Microwave on 100% power for 5 to 6 minutes or until the broccoli is tender, turning the dish once.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using roasted cashews instead of salted ones. You can also substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce for a creamier texture. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. This dish can also be made with fresh broccoli; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This Cashew Topped Broccoli makes a delightful side for grilled chicken or baked fish, enhancing any meal with its creamy texture and crunchy topping. It pairs beautifully with American recipes, such as roasted potatoes or a fresh garden salad. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside quinoa or a hearty grain salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the broccoli's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cashew Topped Broccoli contains roughly 550 calories, with 31g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 811mg per serving (35% 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
What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?
If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, feel free to use cheddar for a sharper flavor or Gouda for a creamier texture. Both will complement the dish well. You can also opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.
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).