Broccoli with cream sauce

Broccoli with Cream Sauce: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones that delight us the most, and broccoli with cream sauce is a perfect example. This side dish is not only healthy but also extremely quick and easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you will create a creamy and flavorful dish that will successfully complement any meal.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Broccoli is a cherished vegetable with deep roots in culinary traditions. Over the years, it has become a staple ingredient in many diets due to its nutritional values. The cream sauce, on the other hand, adds a refined touch, transforming broccoli into a sophisticated side dish. This recipe is perfect for enhancing everyday meals or even festive occasions.

Ingredients

- 1 head of broccoli (approximately 500 g)
- 200 ml cream (preferably heavy cream for a creamier sauce)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 30 g butter
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste

Preparing the Broccoli

1. Preparing the broccoli: Start by washing the head of broccoli well. Cut it into small florets, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.

2. Blanching the broccoli: Place water in a large pot and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then add the broccoli florets. Blanch them for 5 minutes until they become slightly tender but still retain a crunchy texture. This step is important for preserving the nutrients and vibrant color of the vegetable.

3. Cooling the broccoli: After boiling the broccoli, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This method helps maintain the intense green color and crunchiness.

Preparing the Cream Sauce

4. Heating the pan: Take a large pan and add the olive oil and butter. Let them heat over medium heat. The olive oil provides a pleasant aroma, while the butter adds a creamy note.

5. Adding the cream: Once the butter has completely melted, add the cream. Mix well and let the sauce simmer over low heat, stirring constantly. Add salt and pepper to taste.

6. Incorporating the broccoli: After the sauce has started to simmer, add the blanched broccoli florets to the pan. Gently stir to coat each floret with sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Serving

7. The perfect side dish: Serve this side dish alongside any type of grilled meat or steak. Broccoli with cream sauce is an excellent choice for chicken, fish, or pork.

Tips and Variations

- Cauliflower alternative: If you want to switch up the recipe, you can use cauliflower instead of broccoli. It offers a similar texture and delicious flavor.
- Vegetable mix: Another option is to combine broccoli with cauliflower and young carrots for a colorful appearance and a variety of flavors.
- Additional spices: You can add spices like nutmeg or garlic for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, helping to maintain digestive health and immunity. The cream sauce, although higher in calories, can be a delicious way to add healthy fats to your diet, especially if you choose quality cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use light cream?
Yes, you can use light cream, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy.

2. How can I keep broccoli fresh?
Store it in the refrigerator in a perforated plastic bag to maintain its freshness.

3. What other vegetables can I combine with cream sauce?
You can try asparagus, carrots, or zucchini.

4. How many calories are in a serving?
A serving of broccoli with cream sauce contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the amount of cream used.

So, get ready to impress everyone with this simple, quick, and incredibly tasty side dish. Broccoli with cream sauce is not only a healthy choice but also an excellent way to add color and flavor to your table. Enjoy!