Introduction to Broccoli and Feta Brownies
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure! If you’re looking for a unique savory treat, let me introduce you to Broccoli and Feta Brownies. Yes, you heard that right—brownies! These aren’t your typical sweet desserts; they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your cravings. Perfect for busy days, these brownies are quick to whip up and will impress your family and friends. Imagine serving a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Trust me, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli and Feta Brownies
These Broccoli and Feta Brownies are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They’re not only easy to make but also incredibly quick, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The combination of savory flavors and cheesy goodness makes them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they’re a sneaky way to get your family to eat their greens without any fuss!
Ingredients for Broccoli and Feta Brownies
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Broccoli and Feta Brownies a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and a nutritious punch. You can also use frozen florets if you’re short on time.
- Olive oil: This healthy fat is used for sautéing and adds a lovely richness to the brownies. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil if you prefer.
- Scallions: These mild onions bring a subtle sweetness and crunch. You can swap them for shallots if you want a more intense flavor.
- Fresh dill: This herb adds a refreshing taste that complements the feta beautifully. If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill works in a pinch.
- All-purpose flour: This is the base for your brownies. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free blend can be used.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the brownies rise, giving them a light texture.
- Salt: A little salt enhances all the flavors in the dish. You can adjust the amount based on your dietary needs.
- Milk: This adds moisture to the batter. You can use any milk you like—dairy, almond, or oat milk all work well.
- Eggs: Lightly beaten eggs help bind the ingredients together, giving the brownies structure.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta brings a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the broccoli. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese is a great alternative.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella adds a gooey texture. You can use a dairy-free cheese if you want to keep it vegan.
- Pecorino cheese: Grated pecorino on top adds a salty finish. Parmesan can be used instead if you prefer.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Broccoli and Feta Brownies
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious Broccoli and Feta Brownies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a savory treat that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven heats up, lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with olive oil. This will help your brownies come out easily once they’re baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Next, let’s get that broccoli ready! Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss in the broccoli florets and let them boil for just one minute. This quick blanching helps retain their vibrant color and crunch. After a minute, drain the broccoli and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to dry. Once it’s cool, give it a rough chop to make it easier to mix into the batter.
Step 3: Sauté the Scallions
Now, let’s enhance those flavors! In the same pot, wipe it clean and heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced scallions for about a minute until they’re fragrant and slightly softened. This step brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your brownies.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well is essential for a consistent batter. If you’re using gluten-free flour, make sure it’s well combined to avoid any clumps.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the milk, lightly beaten eggs, and ¼ cup of olive oil to the dry mixture. Stir until the batter thickens. If it seems too runny, don’t panic! Just add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the right consistency.
Step 6: Fold in the Vegetables and Cheese
Here comes the fun part! Gently fold in the chopped broccoli, sautéed scallions, fresh dill, crumbled feta, and shredded mozzarella into the batter. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that lovely texture intact. This is where the magic happens, and your brownies start to take shape!
Step 7: Bake the Brownies
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with grated pecorino cheese and give it a light spray of olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps them set, making slicing easier. After that, cut them into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your savory Broccoli and Feta Brownies!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step for scallions; it enhances their flavor significantly.
- Check the brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
- Let the brownies cool completely for easier slicing.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on flavor!
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: An 11×7-inch dish works best, but an 8×8-inch pan is a good alternative.
- Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for mixing ingredients; a medium bowl is handy for smaller tasks.
- Whisk: A whisk is perfect for blending dry and wet ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula helps in folding ingredients and spreading the batter evenly.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping broccoli and scallions.
Variations
- Cheese Swap: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture and tangy flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like basil or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate other veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions for Broccoli and Feta Brownies
- Pair these brownies with a fresh garden salad for a light, balanced meal.
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a creamy contrast.
- Enjoy alongside a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
- For a fun presentation, cut into bite-sized squares and serve as appetizers.
- Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of feta for an eye-catching touch.
FAQs about Broccoli and Feta Brownies
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the batter. This will help maintain the right texture in your Broccoli and Feta Brownies.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! These brownies are perfect for meal prep. You can make them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just let them cool completely before slicing and storing.
What can I serve with Broccoli and Feta Brownies?
These savory treats pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a dollop of tzatziki. You can also serve them as appetizers at your next gathering!
Are these brownies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of these Broccoli and Feta Brownies.
Final Thoughts
Making Broccoli and Feta Brownies is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a joyful experience in the kitchen. This unique savory treat brings together the goodness of vegetables and the richness of cheese, making it a delightful addition to any meal. I love how these brownies can turn a simple weeknight dinner into something special. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some greens for the family! So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the deliciousness that comes from your oven. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Broccoli and Feta Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure! If you’re looking for a unique savory treat, let me introduce you to Broccoli and Feta Brownies. Yes, you heard that right—brownies! These aren’t your typical sweet desserts; they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your cravings. Perfect for busy days, these brownies are quick to whip up and will impress your family and friends. Imagine serving a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Trust me, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 7 oz broccoli florets
- 1 tsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- 4 scallions, diced
- 3 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1¼ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour/gluten-free flour)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3 tbsp grated pecorino cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a pot, bring water to a boil and add 1 tsp salt. Add the broccoli florets and return to a boil for 1 minute. Remove the broccoli and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain and dry. Give them a rough chop after drying.
- Drain the pot, wipe it clean, and heat 1 tsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced scallions for 1 minute, then set them aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and 1 tsp salt. Add the milk, eggs, and ¼ cup olive oil, mixing until the batter thickens. If the batter is too runny, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Fold in the chopped broccoli, sautéed scallions, chopped dill, crumbled feta, and shredded mozzarella into the batter.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with grated pecorino cheese and lightly spray with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour.
- These brownies can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Savory Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
