Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. of broccoli florets
- 1 cup of ricotta di bufala cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Blanch the broccoli florets in a pot of boiling salted water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta di bufala cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Add the blanched broccoli florets to the mixing bowl and toss to coat the broccoli with the cheese mixture.
5. Transfer the broccoli mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the broccoli mixture.
7. Bake the broccoli bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove the broccoli bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 230
Fat per serving: 18g
Carbohydrates per serving: 9g
Protein per serving: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Regular ricotta cheese can be used instead of ricotta di bufala cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Broccolini or cauliflower can be used instead of broccoli florets.
Variations:
- Add cooked pasta to the broccoli mixture before baking for a heartier dish.
- Top the broccoli bake with sliced tomatoes before baking for a burst of color and flavor.
- Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the broccoli mixture for a meatier dish.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to blanch the broccoli florets before baking to ensure they are tender.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Use a high-quality olive oil for the breadcrumb topping.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the broccoli bake in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with additional chopped fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
Pair with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Grilled vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the breadcrumb topping is browning too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
- If the cheese is not melted and bubbly after the recommended cooking time, broil the dish for a few minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the broccoli to the recommended temperature to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Food History:
Ricotta di bufala is a type of Italian cheese made from the milk of water buffalo. It is known for its creamy texture and delicate flavor.
Flavor Profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian