Snow-Capped Broccoli Spears
Snow-Capped Broccoli Spears features tender broccoli topped with a cheesy, fluffy egg white mixture, baked to perfection—ideal as a flavorful side for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli spears according to package directions; drain well.
- Arrange broccoli with stem ends toward the center on an ovenproof platter or in a 9-inch pie plate.
- Brush broccoli with the melted butter or margarine.
- In a small bowl, beat egg whites and salt with rotary beater until stiff peaks form (tips stand straight).
- Gently fold in mayonnaise or salad dressing.
- Spoon mixture in center of broccoli; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or lemon zest to the mayonnaise mixture. If you want a lighter version, substitute low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for the dressing. Fresh broccoli can be steamed instead of boiled for better texture. Be careful not to overbeat the egg whites; they should be fluffy but still retain some moisture for a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve alongside a light salad or with crusty bread for a satisfying vegetarian option. For a festive touch, consider serving it as a side dish at holiday gatherings or family dinners, complementing other vegetable sides and savory mains.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Snow-Capped Broccoli Spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snow-Capped Broccoli Spears contains roughly 60 calories, with 7g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1319mg per serving (57% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli spears instead of frozen. Simply steam or blanch them until tender but still crisp, then follow the same preparation steps. Fresh broccoli will provide a vibrant color and texture that enhances the dish.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the grated Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Use a dairy-free mayonnaise or an avocado-based spread to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
What can I add to the topping for extra flavor?
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the egg white mixture before spooning it over the broccoli. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for a bit of heat, elevating the dish further.
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).