Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Broccoli Melts


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 25minutes
  • Yield: 8 Servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Broccoli Melts are a delicious open-faced snack or light meal made with fresh broccoli (or broccolini), melted provolone cheese, and a flavorful garlic, red pepper, and lemon kick. The combination of crispy bread, savory cheese, and the vibrant broccoli mixture creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Quick and easy to make, these melts are a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion!


Ingredients

For the Broccoli:

  • 1 pound broccolini or regular broccoli
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • A few pinches red pepper flakes, to taste
  • Finely grated zest, then juice, of 1/2 lemon
  • Coarse salt, to taste

For the Melts:

  • 1/2 cup finely grated aged pecorino romano cheese
  • 8 thin slices provolone cheese (deli-style)
  • 8 slices bread of your choice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli:

    • Trim the ends of the broccolini or cut the regular broccoli into small florets. Steam or blanch until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Garlic:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the Broccoli:

    • Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet and toss with garlic and red pepper flakes for 3-4 minutes. Add lemon zest and juice, and season with coarse salt.
  4. Assemble the Melts:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bread slices on a baking sheet. Top each slice with the broccoli mixture and sprinkle with grated pecorino cheese.
  5. Melt the Cheese:

    • Place a slice of provolone cheese on each bread slice. Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve:

    • Remove from the oven and serve hot. Optionally garnish with extra red pepper flakes or more pecorino romano.

Notes

  • Cheese Options: You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or fontina cheese instead of provolone.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the broccoli mixture in advance and refrigerate. Assemble and bake just before serving.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American