Garlic Broccoli Spread
Garlic Broccoli Spread Recipe - Vegan Delight
Introduction
Garlic broccoli spread is a delicious and healthy appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. This spread is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great addition to any meal.
History
The origins of garlic broccoli spread are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Mediterranean cuisine. This spread has become popular in recent years due to its delicious taste and health benefits.
Ingredients
- 6 cloves of garlic, peeled
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 0.5 tsp of crushed red pepper
- 2.5 cups of broccoli
- 1 cup of canned white kidney beans, rinsed
- 2 tbsp of lemon juice
- toasted baguette slices
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a small custard cup, combine the garlic, oil, and red pepper.
- Cover the custard cup tightly with foil.
- Bake the garlic mixture until the garlic is tender, approximately 35 minutes.
- Steam the broccoli until it is tender, about 8 minutes.
- In a food processor, combine the steamed broccoli, beans, lemon juice, and the oil/garlic mixture.
- Process the ingredients until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on bread and enjoy.
Variations
- Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture for a cheesy twist.
- Mix in some roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
- Top the spread with some chopped nuts for added crunch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to steam the broccoli until it is tender but still slightly crisp to maintain its nutrients and flavor.
- Toasting the baguette slices before spreading the mixture on them will add a nice crunch to the dish.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the garlic broccoli spread on toasted baguette slices as an appetizer or snack.
Cooking Techniques
Steaming the broccoli and baking the garlic before processing them ensures that the spread has a smooth and creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any type of beans in place of white kidney beans, such as chickpeas or black beans.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the garlic broccoli spread ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the garlic broccoli spread with a drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve the garlic broccoli spread with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover garlic broccoli spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of garlic broccoli spread contains approximately 180 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of garlic broccoli spread contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of garlic broccoli spread contains approximately 8 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of garlic broccoli spread contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Garlic broccoli spread is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as folate and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe contains garlic and may not be suitable for individuals with garlic allergies.
Summary
Garlic broccoli spread is a nutritious dish that is high in vitamins and minerals, while also being low in calories.
Summary
Garlic broccoli spread is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious spread on toasted baguette slices for a tasty appetizer or snack.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I had just finished pruning the broccoli plants in my garden. As I stood there admiring the vibrant green heads, I suddenly had a craving for a new way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.
I decided to rummage through my grandmother's old recipe box, the one she had passed down to me when I first started my own family. As I flipped through the tattered index cards and yellowed newspaper clippings, I stumbled upon a recipe for Garlic Broccoli Spread. The ingredients were simple - broccoli, garlic, cream cheese, and a few spices - but the combination intrigued me.
I remembered my grandmother telling me that she had learned this recipe from a dear friend many years ago. She had described it as a versatile spread that could be used on sandwiches, crackers, or even as a dip for vegetables. I could almost hear her voice as she shared the recipe with me, her eyes twinkling with excitement.
I decided to give it a try, gathering the ingredients and setting to work in my cozy kitchen. As I chopped the broccoli into small florets and minced the garlic, the aroma filled the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation. I sautéed the garlic in a bit of olive oil until it was fragrant and golden, then added the broccoli to the pan and let it cook until it was tender.
Once the broccoli was cooked, I transferred it to a mixing bowl and added the cream cheese, along with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for extra flavor. I used a hand mixer to blend everything together until it was smooth and creamy, the vibrant green color of the broccoli contrasting beautifully with the creamy white of the cheese.
I couldn't resist taking a small taste, spreading a spoonful of the Garlic Broccoli Spread on a cracker and popping it into my mouth. The flavors exploded on my taste buds - the rich creaminess of the cheese, the sharpness of the garlic, and the earthy sweetness of the broccoli all melding together in perfect harmony.
I knew I had stumbled upon a culinary gem, a recipe that would soon become a staple in my kitchen. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends, to see their faces light up with delight as they tasted this delicious spread for the first time.
Over the years, I have made the Garlic Broccoli Spread countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add a bit of lemon zest for a citrusy kick, or a handful of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. But no matter how I choose to prepare it, the result is always the same - a creamy, flavorful spread that never fails to impress.
I have shared the recipe with many people over the years, passing it on to my children and grandchildren, as well as friends and neighbors who have tasted it at my table. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that warm summer afternoon when I first discovered it, and the joy it has brought to my kitchen ever since.
As I sit here now, writing this story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but smile. The Garlic Broccoli Spread may seem like just a simple recipe, but to me, it represents so much more - a connection to my past, a love for cooking, and the joy of sharing delicious food with the ones I love.
And so, I will continue to make this recipe for years to come, passing it down through the generations, just as my grandmother did for me. Because some recipes are meant to be shared, to be cherished, and to bring a little bit of magic to every meal.
Categories
| Broccoli Recipes | Cannellini Bean Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Spread Recipes | Vegan Recipes |