Baked Broccoli with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes

Baked Broccoli with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients:

• 3–4 broccoli florets
• Salt, to taste
• Provence spices, to taste
• 200 g (7 oz) cherry tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• 200 g (1 cup) grated mozzarella cheese
• 6 large slices mozzarella cheese

Preparation:

Before we dive into the full preparation, let’s take care of a few crucial steps that will make the dish easier to assemble and ensure perfect results.

1. Steam the Broccoli: Begin by steaming the broccoli florets until they are tender but still firm. This should take around 5-7 minutes. They should maintain their bright green color and slight crunch.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes: While the broccoli steams, cut the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a bowl. Add the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, ground black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir well and let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes. This marination enhances the flavor of the tomatoes, infusing them with a savory garlic aroma.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Now, let’s move on to assembling and baking this delicious dish.

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to ensure it’s fully heated by the time your dish is ready to bake.

2. Prepare the Baking Mold:

Lightly drizzle olive oil onto a baking dish or mold. Spread it evenly to prevent any sticking while the dish bakes.

3. Arrange the Broccoli:

Take your steamed broccoli and arrange it evenly in the prepared baking mold. Season it with a pinch of salt and Provence spices. These aromatic herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, basil, and marjoram) will complement the flavors of the vegetables beautifully.

4. Add the Marinated Tomatoes:

Once the broccoli is set, distribute the marinated cherry tomatoes evenly across the dish. Make sure each section of broccoli gets some of the flavorful tomatoes to ensure each bite is a perfect mix of textures and tastes.

5. Top with Mozzarella Cheese:

Now, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese generously over the broccoli and tomatoes. The grated cheese will melt into every nook and cranny of the dish, adding a creamy layer of flavor. For extra indulgence, lay the large slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the grated cheese, ensuring a gooey, golden finish once baked.

Baking the Delight:

Place the baking mold in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the dish, as you want the cheese to melt completely and turn golden brown. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the aroma of baked cheese and garlic should fill the kitchen.

Once the cheese is golden and bubbly, remove the dish from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and the cheese firm up slightly.

Serving Suggestions:

This baked broccoli dish can be served as a hearty side or as a light main course. Pair it with crusty  bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. The combination of rich mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and tender broccoli will satisfy both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Nutritional Information:

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 280 kcal
• Protein: 18 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Calcium: 350 mg