Broccoli (Brassica oleracea) has a ton of nutritional benefits and contains 2.3 grams of fiber per cup, plus potassium and even some protein. There is even some clinical evidence that eating broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables can lower your risk for breast cancer and lung cancer.
But finding new ways to enjoy broccoli can be a challenge. Luckily, these recipes from some inventive food bloggers will give you a new outlook on this healthy vegetable.
Roasted spiced broccoli and cauliflower
Super simple and simply delicious, this side dish is a magical mixture of spices and flavors. Paleo-friendly, it’s also gluten-, casein-, and dairy-free when you prepare it using coconut oil.
Broccoli cheese soup
This “better-than-Panera” broccoli cheese soup comes via Steve Adams, the Blue Eyed Baker. If you’re counting calories, you can substitute the cream or half and half for low fat milk to cut the fat content.
Broccoli and apple salad with walnuts
This crunchy, Paleo-friendly salad includes broccoli, apple, and shaved carrots topped with dried cranberries and walnuts. Want more flavor? Roast the walnuts for a few minutes in the oven, then top with the tasty dressing!
Crunchy broccoli slaw
The ramen noodles in this recipe from Culinary Hill give this broccoli coleslaw even more texture, while sunflower seeds, almonds, and a tangy dressing bring it a nutritious kick. Perfect for a cookout!
Read Also: Top 14 Health Benefits of Broccoli
Rice noodles and broccoli stir fry
You don’t need to order takeout to get some Asian-inspired flavor! Serve this dish with meat or on its own. The sesame oil and maple syrup add a rich, sweet flavor. Use a wok to attain the best heat levels to properly sear the ingredients.
Baby broccoli frittata with feta
Baby broccoli, which is also known as broccolini, boasts a milder flavor that pairs exceptionally well with feta. This frittata from Erin at Naturally Bella adds eggs and just a few other ingredients to create a savory meal that’s good for any time of the day.
Broccoli cashew bowl
This easy to make broccoli bowl really works the taste buds, combining the flavors of soy, teriyaki, and Sriracha with garlic and sweet cashew nut. Plus, it can be put together in just a few minutes, and any leftovers are easily microwavable.
Charred broccoli and avocado salad
This meal incorporates two very nutritious “greens” into a tasty salad topped with an herb tahini dressing. Clotilde, who runs the Chocolate and Zucchini blog, says not to be shy about roasting the broccoli, which brings out the true flavor of this salad.
Pesto broccoli chicken pasta
A pesto broccoli chicken dish with pasta? We’re in! If you like, ditch the pasta for rice pasta or go Paleo and substitute zoodles or yam spirals. The blend of broccoli with pesto is a tad unexpected, but nonetheless healthy and unique.
Broccoli balls
Dust off your food processor for this unique snack that combines processed broccoli, breadcrumbs, mashed potatoes, and a few other ingredients.
Ella Fin’s recipe is a great way to sneak in some veggies into your child’s diet, or your own. For a healthy game day snack with appetizer appeal, this one can’t be beat.
Asian quinoa salad
Looking for a dish that’s healthy, delicious, and easy to prepare? This hearty quinoa salad from Minimalist Baker is all three. Colorful produce including broccoli, edamame, red peppers, and red cabbage come together with a tangy dressing to create a quinoa salad that is sure to be a regular favorite.