**Festive Broccoli: A Collection of Christmas-Themed Broccoli Recipes**
Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable known for its health benefits and distinct flavor, takes center stage in this festive collection of Christmas-themed recipes. From elegant appetizers to hearty main courses and delightful side dishes, these broccoli recipes bring a touch of holiday cheer to your table. Whether you're hosting a grand feast or an intimate gathering, these dishes are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant colors, creative presentations, and delicious flavors. From roasted broccoli with tangy cranberry sauce to broccoli-stuffed shells adorned with festive herbs, each recipe adds a unique twist to this versatile vegetable. Get ready to elevate your Christmas menu with these delectable broccoli creations that are not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients and holiday spirit.
**Recipes Included:**
* **Roasted Broccoli with Cranberry Sauce:** A classic holiday side dish featuring tender-crisp broccoli florets tossed in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
* **Broccoli-Stuffed Shells:** A festive take on classic stuffed shells, where tender broccoli florets and a creamy cheese filling are enveloped in delicate pasta shells, topped with a flavorful tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
* **Broccoli and Wild Rice Casserole:** A hearty and comforting casserole that combines broccoli, wild rice, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, creating a savory and satisfying dish perfect for a Christmas feast.
* **Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Bacon:** A rich and flavorful soup that features broccoli, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, offering a comforting and indulgent experience on a chilly winter day.
* **Broccoli and Almond Salad:** A refreshing and crunchy salad that combines broccoli, almonds, dried cranberries, and a tangy dressing, providing a light and healthy option for your holiday table.
* **Broccoli and Goat Cheese Tart:** An elegant appetizer or light lunch option, this tart features a flaky crust filled with creamy goat cheese, roasted broccoli, and a drizzle of honey, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
FESTIVE CORN 'N' BROCCOLI
This recipe is delicious and versatile. I often substitute a tablespoon of minced fresh basil for the dried, and two to three ears of sweet corn (about a cup cut fresh from the cob) for the Mexicorn. -Lucile Throgmorton, Clovis, New Mexico
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Side Dishes
Time 15m
Yield 5 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- In a large cast-iron or other heavy skillet, combine the broccoli, corn and butter; cook over medium heat until butter is melted. Stir in the basil, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Cover and cook until vegetables are tender, 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 135 calories, Fat 9g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 24mg cholesterol, Sodium 541mg sodium, Carbohydrate 12g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 4g protein.
FESTIVE BROCCOLI-CAULIFLOWER SALAD
I came up with this recipe when unexpected company arrived and I didn't have enough lettuce and tomatoes on hand to make a traditional salad. Everyone enjoyed it so much that it became a regular at our table. -Avanell Hewitt, North Richland Hills, Texas
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch Side Dishes
Time 35m
Yield 14 servings (2/3 cup each).
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. , In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, salad dressing, Italian seasoning, garlic powder and dill. Pour over salad; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. , Just before serving, sprinkle with sunflower kernels.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 253 calories, Fat 24g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 13mg cholesterol, Sodium 284mg sodium, Carbohydrate 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 4g protein.
FESTIVE HOT BROCCOLI DIP
I found this recipe on the back of a box of Wheat Thin Crackers. I've made it both with the pimentos and I've also subbed out the pimientos and used a pretty red pepper (if they are on sale). The original recipe calls for Miracle Whip Salad Dressing but I've used a low-fat mayonaisse and it tastes just as nice - actually not as sweet. So feel free to adjust to your preference on that. I like to add a bit of garlic to this dip too to give it a bit more zing so I've included that as optional. I love serving this with baked bagel chips or wheat crackers - but use what you prefer! Hope you enjoy.
Provided by HokiesMom
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 30m
Yield 3 cups, 25 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Mix together dressing, broccoli, pimientos, (garlic if using), parmesean cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Spread into a 1 quart baking dish or a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake in a preheated oven set at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese and bake an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
- Serve with your favorite crackers or bagel chips.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 12.3, Fat 0.6, SaturatedFat 0.3, Cholesterol 1.8, Sodium 33.6, Carbohydrate 0.8, Fiber 0.4, Sugar 0.2, Protein 1.1
FESTIVE BROCCOLI WITH BUTTERED RED PEPPER
The green broccoli and red bell pepper give a nice festive appearance. It's a simple recipe you can easily play around with to suit your own tastes.
Provided by - Carla -
Categories Vegetable
Time 30m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Bring a medium-size pot of salted water to boiling.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for 5-6 minutes or until tender.
- Drain and keep warm.
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in medium-size nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add red pepper and garlic; reduce heat to medium-low heat.
- Cook stirring occasionally for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Add remaining tbsp butter, salt and pepper.
- Place broccoli in bowl.
- Pour butter over top.
- Serve at once.
FESTIVE BROCCOLI & CORN
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- 1. Heat all ingredients to boiling in 1 1/2 quart saucepan reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 4 to 5 minutes of until broccoli is crisp tender. NUTRITION INFORMATION 1 Serving Calories 60 (Calories from Fat 0) Fat 0g (Saturated 0g) Cholesterol 0mg Sodium 180mg Carbohydrate 15g (Dietary Fiber 4g) Protein 4g % DAILY VALUE: Vitamin A 16% Vitamin C 34% Calcium 4% Iron 4% DIET EXCHANGES: 3 VegetableFrom "Betty Crocker's Low-Fat, Low-Cholesterol Cooking Today." Text Copyright 2005 General Mills, Inc. Used with permission of the publisher, Wiley Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Nutrition Facts : Nutritional Facts Serves
FESTIVE BROCCOLI
Steps:
- Trim broccoli and cut into 3 inch pieces. Place in saucepan with 1 cup water and 1/4 teaspoon salt; cook until almost tender. Transfer to raoster. Pour cooking liquid into 1 quart liquid measure; add milk to measure 2 1/4 cups Melt butter; blend in flour. stirring constantly, gradually add milk mixture; cook until sauce bubbles and thickens. Stir in vermouth, cheese, mustards, worcestershire sauce, and salt and cayeene pepper to taste. Pour sauce over broccoli; sprinkle with crumbs. Bake in 375 oven until mixture bubbles and top is crisp, about 10 minutes
Tips:
- Choose the right broccoli: Look for broccoli crowns that are deep green in color and have tightly closed florets. Avoid broccoli that is yellowing or has wilted florets.
- Prepare the broccoli properly: Cut the broccoli into 1-inch florets and rinse them well under cold water. You can also peel the stems if desired.
- Cook the broccoli to your desired doneness: You can boil, steam, or roast the broccoli, depending on your preference. Boiling is the quickest method, but steaming or roasting will help to preserve the broccoli's nutrients and flavor.
- Season the broccoli with simple ingredients: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are all great ways to season broccoli. You can also add other spices or herbs, such as chili powder, cumin, or thyme.
- Serve the broccoli immediately: Broccoli is best served hot or warm. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish with other dishes, such as chicken, fish, or pasta.
Conclusion:
Broccoli is a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways. With its mild flavor and high nutritional value, broccoli is a great addition to any healthy diet. The tips and recipes provided in this article will help you to prepare and enjoy broccoli in a variety of ways. So next time you're looking for a healthy and delicious side dish, give broccoli a try!
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