Grilled Goat Cheese and Broccoli Sandwich
I've been finding all sorts of uses for finely chopped broccoli crowns lately. I make a broccoli and goat cheese spread for this sandwich. I briefly steam the broccoli, chop it finely and mash it with the goat cheese. Then I spread it on country bread, sprinkle with the nut and spice mix known as dukkah and top with the other slice of bread. The dukkah adds the surprise touch. You'll only use half the chopped steamed broccoli in one sandwich. But you'll want to use up the rest in another.
I've been finding all sorts of uses for finely chopped broccoli crowns lately. I make a broccoli and goat cheese spread for this sandwich. I briefly steam the broccoli, chop it finely and mash it with the goat cheese. Then I spread it on country bread, sprinkle with the nut and spice mix known as dukkah and top with the other slice of bread. The dukkah adds the surprise touch. You'll only use half the chopped steamed broccoli in one sandwich. But you'll want to use up the rest in another.
- 1/2 broccoli crown (about 2 ounces)
- 1 ounce goat cheese (about 1/4 cup crumbled)
- 2 to 3 teaspoons finely chopped fresh herbs such as chives, parsley and marjoram (optional)
- 1 garlic clove halved (optional)
- 2 slices whole-grain country bread
- 1/2 teaspoon dukkah (see recipe)
- 1/2 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 2.25 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0.31068 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (31g)
- Sodium 0.045 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0.06093 g
- Calories 20 calories
Step-by-step
- Steam broccoli for 4 minutes, until tender but bright.
- Rinse briefly with cold water and drain well on paper towels or kitchen towels.
- Chop fine and measure out 1/4 cup. Set aside remaining chopped broccoli for another sandwich or another dish.
- Mash goat cheese in a bowl and add the 1/4 cup chopped broccoli and the fresh herbs if using. Mash together.
- If desired, rub 1 slice of bread with a cut clove of garlic and then purée remaining garlic and stir into broccoli/goat cheese mixture.
- Spread goat cheese and broccoli over bread.
- Sprinkle with dukkah.
- Top with the other slice of bread (rub it with garlic if desired) and press down firmly.
- Drizzle remaining olive oil over top slice of bread.
- Toast in toaster oven 3 to 4 minutes, until cheese has melted.
- Remove from toaster oven, press down firmly, cut in half and serve.
A Simple Sandwich, Unexpectedly Delicious: My Grilled Goat Cheese and Broccoli Creation
As a busy professional, finding quick and satisfying meals is a constant challenge. I'm always looking for recipes that are both nutritious and delicious, without requiring hours in the kitchen. This Grilled Goat Cheese and Broccoli Sandwich fits the bill perfectly. It's surprisingly flavorful and requires minimal effort, making it a perfect lunch or light dinner option.
The inspiration for this sandwich came from my desire to use up some leftover broccoli. I often find myself with extra broccoli florets after prepping dinner, and I was determined to find a creative way to incorporate them into a new meal. The creamy tang of goat cheese paired beautifully with the slightly sweet, earthy flavor of broccoli. It's a combination I never expected to work so well, but the result was a revelation. The addition of dukkah, a fragrant Egyptian spice blend, elevates the sandwich to another level, adding a surprising crunch and depth of flavor. It's the perfect counterpoint to the creamy goat cheese and tender broccoli.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There's no need for complicated techniques or obscure ingredients. Simply steaming the broccoli, mashing it with the goat cheese, and assembling the sandwich takes just minutes. The toasting process in the toaster oven melts the goat cheese perfectly, creating a warm, gooey center. I love the way the bread gets perfectly crisp on the outside, creating a wonderful textural contrast to the soft interior. The slightly garlicky bread (if you opt for that extra flavor boost) adds a sophisticated touch without being overpowering.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different herbs to tailor the flavor to your liking. Chives, parsley, and marjoram are excellent choices, adding a fresh, herbaceous note. You can even experiment with other cheeses, such as feta or ricotta, although the creamy texture of goat cheese works exceptionally well with the broccoli. The amount of dukkah is also adjustable—add more for a more intense flavor or less for a milder taste.
This sandwich is not only delicious and easy to make, but it's also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables. Broccoli is packed with nutrients, and incorporating it into a lunch or dinner option helps ensure I'm getting enough of my daily dose of greens. It’s a wonderful way to feel good about what I'm eating while still satisfying my cravings for a quick and easy meal.
So, if you're looking for a simple, yet satisfying lunch or dinner idea, I highly recommend trying this Grilled Goat Cheese and Broccoli Sandwich. It's a recipe that has quickly become a staple in my busy week, and I know it will become one of your favorites, too.
The best part? You can easily double or triple the recipe to make several sandwiches at once, saving you time throughout the week. Pack them in your lunchbox or enjoy them as a quick and healthy dinner option after a long day. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal prep candidate.
Beyond its practicality, this recipe also embodies a sense of creativity in the kitchen. It highlights how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. It’s a testament to the fact that gourmet meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes, the most satisfying dishes are the ones that are quick, easy, and full of flavor.
This sandwich is a testament to my belief that even the simplest meals can be elevated with a few carefully chosen ingredients and a touch of creativity. So, grab some broccoli, goat cheese, and dukkah, and get ready to experience a sandwich that’s as delightful as it is easy to make. Trust me, it’s a flavor combination that will surprise and delight you.
