Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale: A Nutritious and Delicious Side Dish

Directions

Preparing the Vegetables:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped kale. Set aside.

Making the Creamy Sauce:

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.

Assembling and Baking the Dish:

1. Combine Vegetables and Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the vegetables in the mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Serving:

1. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips and Shortcuts

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the vegetable mixture and creamy sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine just before baking.
• Add Protein: To make this a more substantial meal, add cooked chicken, bacon, or tofu to the vegetable mixture before baking.
• Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, Gouda, or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the creamy sauce for a spicy twist.
• Herbaceous Touch: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the vegetable mixture for added depth of flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave for individual servings.