Broccoli Cheddar Melt

Broccoli and cheddar cheese come together in this recipe filled with whole ingredients, fiber, and delicious, delicious cheese. Yum!

Ingredients

• 1 lb broccoli, florets and stems
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• Slices of whole wheat bread
• Red pepper flakes, to taste

  Directions

  1.  Wash the broccoli well. Peel and chop the broccoli stem. Chop the florets.
  2. In a large pan, add just enough water to cover the pan by about an inch (as deep as your thumb) and bring to a boil.
  3. Add the broccoli and cook for 2 minutes until the broccoli has softened but is still firm. Drain well.
  4. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess water.
  5. Chop the broccoli into smaller bite-sized pieces. 
  6. In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
  7. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and cook for 1 minute until garlic begins to brown.
  8. Add chopped broccoli, lemon zest, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender.
  9.  Place slices of bread in the oven or toaster oven until lightly browned on both sides.
  10. Add a scoop of broccoli mixture and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
  11. Return to the oven/toaster oven and bake until the cheese is melted and beginning to brown. 

  Photo credit: How Sweet Eats