Roasted Tomato and Broccoli Delight

This Roasted Tomato and Broccoli Delight is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the crunchy texture of broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a light main course, this recipe showcases the best of fresh produce in a simple yet delicious way. The combination of ripe tomatoes and blanched broccoli florets offers a delightful contrast in flavor and texture. A buttery, Parmesan-infused sauce made from milk and a hint of nutmeg enhances the dish with an irresistible creaminess. The addition of lemon juice provides a subtle tang, perfectly balancing the savory notes with a touch of brightness. This dish is not only pleasing to the palate but also visually captivating with its vibrant hues. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, Roasted Tomato and Broccoli Delight is sure to impress. Its wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors make it a dish you’ll want to make over and over again.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 grams tomatoes
• 700 grams broccoli
• 40 grams butter
• 40 grams flour
• 0.5 liters milk
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese

Spices and Sauces:

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt
• Pepper
• Grated nutmeg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Begin by pouring boiling water over the tomatoes and let them sit for a short while. Transfer them into cold water, then peel off the skins and cut them into eighths.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: Rinse the broccoli well. Trim the florets and peel and slice the stems into 1 cm pieces. Blanch the florets and stems in boiling water briefly, then shock them in ice water to preserve their vibrant color.
3. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a heatproof baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Add the prepared tomatoes and broccoli, and toss them together gently to mix.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until it becomes a golden yellow.
6. Add Milk: Slowly pour the milk into the pan while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
7. Season the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Add lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.
8. Assemble the Dish: Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the tomato and broccoli mixture in the baking dish.
9. Bake to Perfection: Reduce the oven temperature to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the dish for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown.
10. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Tips

• Substitutions: Use whole grain flour for a healthier alternative or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Cheese: Feel free to substitute Parmesan with Pecorino for a stronger flavor.
• Lemon: If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled juice works too, but adjust to taste.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 10g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Keto-Friendly: Omit the flour and use a keto-friendly thickener for the sauce.
• Herbs: Add fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs for a special touch.

Best Places

1. Chez Panisse - A pioneer in using fresh, local ingredients. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
2. Ottolenghi - Known for vibrant vegetable dishes. Location: 287 Upper St, Islington, London, England.
3. Blue Hill at Stone Barns - Focuses on fresh, farm-to-table produce. Location: 630 Bedford Rd, Tarrytown, USA.
4. Noma - Innovatively utilizes local, seasonal ingredients. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
5. El Celler de Can Roca - Emphasizes creative presentation of vegetables. Location: Can Sunyer 48, Girona, Spain.
6. Eleven Madison Park - Offers a beautifully crafted plant-based menu. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York City, USA.
7. Gjelina - Serves seasonal produce in imaginative ways. Location: 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, USA.
8. Le Bernardin - Masterful use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York City, USA.
9. Quintonil - Celebrates Mexican cuisine with fresh vegetables. Location: Newton 55, Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico.
10. Alice Waters Café at Chez Panisse - Provides a classic, farm-fresh experience. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.