Broccoli pudding

Broccoli Pudding - A Simple and Healthy Vegetable Pasta Recipe

In a world where time is limited, but the desire to eat healthily remains constant, broccoli pudding proves to be the perfect choice. This vegetable pasta recipe is not only easy to prepare but also extremely delicious. You will discover how a combination of simple ingredients transforms into a savory and nutritious dish. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g spaghetti
- 4 eggs
- 200 g sour cream
- 1 piece of broccoli (approximately 300 g)
- 1-2 boiled carrots
- 150 g telemea (or feta cheese for a stronger flavor)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)

About the Ingredients:
Spaghetti is the base of this recipe, providing texture and consistency. You can use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option. Broccoli is a vegetable full of vitamins, rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Carrots add not only a splash of color but also sweetness and essential nutrients. Telemea or feta cheese adds a salty and creamy flavor, perfect for balancing the tastes. Sour cream will make the pudding soft and delicious, while the eggs blend the ingredients and help form the texture.

Brief History:
This pudding has its roots in traditional pasta dishes, which have evolved over time. Combining pasta with vegetables has been an ingenious way to transform food scraps into nutritious meals. Today, this recipe is appreciated not only for its taste but also for its healthy and nutritious aspect.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Boil the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add plenty of salt to flavor the pasta. When the water starts to boil, break the spaghetti into pieces of about 3-4 cm and add them to the water. Cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8 and 10 minutes). Make sure not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

2. Prepare the Broccoli and Carrots:
While the pasta is boiling, you can prepare the vegetables. Cut the broccoli into small florets. If you already have boiled carrots, you can slice them into rounds or cubes. If not, boil them separately until tender. Broccoli can be blanched for 2-3 minutes in boiling water to retain its vibrant color and improve texture.

3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the 4 eggs with the sour cream, adding salt and pepper to taste. Add the crumbled telemea (or feta) and mix well. Here, you can also add extra spices like dried basil or oregano for an extra flavor boost.

4. Combine Everything:
After the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the bowl with the eggs and sour cream. Add the broccoli florets and boiled carrots. Gently mix everything, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Bake the Pudding:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter. Pour the pasta and vegetable mixture into the dish, smoothing it out. Place it in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until the pudding is golden and firm to the touch.

6. Serve with Love:
Once the pudding is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a side of Greek yogurt. This will add a delicious contrast and a refreshing note.

Possible Variations:
- You can replace broccoli with spinach or zucchini to vary the recipe.
- Add some slices of ham or bacon for a richer flavor.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter and healthier option.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the spaghetti is al dente, as they will continue to absorb liquid during baking.
- If you want a fluffier pudding, you can add a bit of baking powder to the egg mixture.
- If you don't have telemea, cottage cheese or ricotta are excellent alternatives.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This broccoli pudding offers about 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, while broccoli and carrots provide a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but the cooking time may vary.
- Can the broccoli pudding be frozen?
Yes, the pudding can be frozen, but the best texture is achieved when freshly cooked.

This broccoli pudding is more than just a simple meal – it is an opportunity to explore delicious and healthy combinations that will delight both family and friends. Enjoy every bite, knowing that you have created something tasty and beneficial!