Broccoli and Potato Gratin: A Homely Delight
Imagine a side dish that not only enriches your meal with its creaminess and crunchiness, but also takes you back to those family Sunday lunches, where simplicity and flavor blend perfectly in a homely dish. Today, I want to share with you a dish that does just that: a meeting of broccoli and potatoes, embraced by golden butter and gooey cheese.
The preparation is simple: vegetables boiled to perfection, then carefully layered in a buttered dish. The bacon adds that irresistible savory touch, while the grated Emmental promises a dreamy golden gratin. And if you want to give your table that little something extra, be tempted by the suggested twist: a pinch of nutmeg and chopped almonds to surprise your senses.
Let this recipe become a part of your happy mealtime memories. It’s time to rediscover the warmth of authentic flavors; it’s time to indulge in this perfect side dish.
Recipe Notes
- EASE: Easy to whip up with just a few ingredients.
- FLAVOR: The cheese and bacon flavors harmonize perfectly.
- TIME: Quick prep and simple oven baking.
- NUTRITION: A light side dish packed with fiber and vitamins.
- TIPS: Add a dash of nutmeg and some almonds for a special twist.
Notes on the Recipe Ingredients
- Broccoli: Packed with fiber and vitamins, perfect for a balanced diet
- Potatoes: A great source of carbs and potassium, providing energy and satisfaction
- Butter: Adds creaminess and flavor to the veggies during cooking
- Bacon: Adds a salty and savory touch to the side dish
- Grated Emmental Cheese: Brings a melty flavor and enriches the dish
- Salt: To adjust the flavor of the vegetables during preparation
Nutritional Aspects
Let’s explore the benefits of this Baked Broccoli and Potato recipe:
- Rich in fiber from broccoli and potatoes, promoting gut health.
- Packed with vitamins C and E, natural antioxidants found in broccoli.
- Provides potassium from potatoes for overall cardiovascular well-being.
- Protein from bacon and calcium from Emmental cheese for strong bones.
- Just 350 Kcal per serving, a light and nourishing side dish.
- Butter as a source of saturated fats, best enjoyed in moderation.
Baked Broccoli and Potatoes Recipe
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil to blanch the broccoli. Once the water is boiling, immerse the broccoli and let it cook until tender but still crispy, for about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and slice them into not too thin rounds. Boil another pot of salted water and cook the potato slices until they become tender, but be careful not to let them fall apart, it will take about 10 minutes.
- Take a baking dish and spread the butter on the bottom and sides to prevent the vegetables from sticking during cooking.
- Arrange the broccoli and potato slices alternately in the buttered baking dish.
- Cut the pancetta into cubes or strips and distribute it evenly over the layers of vegetables in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated Emmental cheese over everything, which will add a melty and tasty note to the dish.
- Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is nicely golden and the vegetables are perfectly gratinated.
- Serve the side dish very hot directly from the baking dish.
Notes
Variations of Baked Broccoli and Potatoes Recipe
Add your own twist to the basic recipe with these variations:
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor
- Swap the bacon with diced ham for a lighter version
- Dust some ground black pepper over the vegetables before baking for a peppery kick
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recipe
If you’re unsure about how to make this delicious side dish, here are the answers to some common questions!
How can I prevent the potatoes from falling apart during cooking?
Make sure not to slice the potatoes too thinly and avoid overcooking them in boiling water.
What can I add to make the dish crispier?
Try sprinkling a handful of chopped almonds over the grated cheese before baking everything for an extra crunch.
How can I make the dish more aromatic?
Before baking, sprinkle a pinch of grated nutmeg over the vegetables for a fragrant and comforting touch.
