| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 15g | 5g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 7g | 15g | 1.34g |
One of the recipes I’ve grown to absolutely adore is my Broccoli Leaf and Tomato Sandwich. Perhaps it’s the crunch and freshness of the vegetables or the creaminess of the cheese, but the blend of flavors seems to whisk me away to a lush Mediterranean garden, every single time. Being a cajun native, my taste buds lean toward potent, lively flavors, and they luxuriously dance around this humble sandwich, paying homage to simple, wholesome ingredients.
The Healthfulness that Hides Within
It’s not just about the exquisite flavors though. There’s a substantial health benefit behind this recipe as well. Using a base of broccoli leaves and tomatoes as main ingredients, this sandwich is richly packed with fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants. Studies have shown that broccoli leaves, particularly, contain more beta-carotene than their stalks or florets, with benefits ranging from improving skin health to boosting the immune system. Tomatoes too, are filled with beneficial nutrients and plant compounds that provide a wide variety of health benefits. When combined with the good fats and proteins from the cream cheese and olive oil, the Broccoli Leaf and Tomato Sandwich turns out to be a remarkably nutritious option for any meal.
A Versatile and Adaptable Delight
The beauty of this Broccoli Leaf and Tomato Sandwich recipe is its immense versatility. It can be modified to suit any palate or diet, making it similar to recipes like the Caprese sandwich or even the Italian Panini. A dollop of pesto, a sprinkle of chia seeds, or a layer of roasted bell pepper strips can add another layer of complexity to this already vibrant sandwich. It pairs well with other dishes too, and can be served alongside a spring mushroom risotto or a French Style Shrimp Salad for a filling and balanced meal.
In my world where food shapes so many of my cultural connections and personal narratives, this Broccoli Leaf and Tomato Sandwich is a celebration of simplicity meeting elegance- blending together the farm fresh produce with a healthy serving of love. Keep this recipe near and dear, because believe me, it’s a keeper!
What You’ll Need
- 12 slices of whole grain bread
- 2 cups of broccoli leaves, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 lettuce leaves
Method
Step One
First of all, take a large mixing bowl. Add your finely chopped broccoli leaves into it.
Step Two
Apply softened cream cheese on one side of each slice of bread. Be sure to cover the entire surface and put aside these slices.
Step Three
Drizzle the finely chopped broccoli leaves with olive oil and toss until they are well coated.
Step Four
Place a pan over medium heat. Add the broccoli leaves into it and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes or till they get slightly wilted.
Step Five
While your broccoli leaves are being sautéed, take the sliced tomatoes and season them with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Step Six
Once the broccoli leaves are done, assemble your sandwich. Start by laying a piece of bread, cream cheese side up.
Step Seven
Over the cream cheese, place a lettuce leaf, a slice or two of your seasoned tomatoes and finally heap a spoonful of the sautéed broccoli leaves.
Step Eight
Top the sandwich with another piece of bread, cream cheese side down, press lightly, and your Broccoli leaf and tomato Sandwich is ready to be served. Enjoy!
