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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
