Broccoli with crunchy garlic sourdough crumbs

Broccoli with crunchy garlic sourdough crumbs features tender, vibrant broccoli tossed in garlic-infused butter, topped with crispy rye breadcrumbs and feta for a delightful texture and flavor contrast. It makes for a nutritious side dish or a light meal.

05 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 slices rye bread
16 oz broccoli
2 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp chives
1/3 cup feta cheese
Broccoli with crunchy garlic sourdough crumbs

Broccoli with crunchy garlic sourdough crumbs is a delightful and nutritious dish that perfectly combines the earthy flavors of broccoli with the savory crunch of garlic-infused sourdough crumbs. It's a great side dish or a light meal that features the perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Bread Crumbs: Start by turning the rye bread into crumbs. You can use a food processor or break them up by hand for a more rustic texture.
- Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into florets and trim the stems. If you like, you can also peel and slice the stems into bite-sized pieces.
- Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely.
- Chives: Finely chop the chives.
2. Toasting the Bread Crumbs:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the rye bread crumbs to the skillet and toast them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once done, transfer the crumbs to a plate and set aside.
3. Cooking the Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets and stems (if using) and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- Drain the broccoli and immediately plunge it into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and keep the vibrant color. Drain well.
4. Making the Garlic Butter:
- In the same skillet used for toasting the bread crumbs, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Combining the Ingredients:
- Add the blanched and drained broccoli to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the broccoli evenly.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serving:
- Transfer the garlic-buttered broccoli to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the toasted rye bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the broccoli.
- Garnish with the finely chopped chives.
7. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while the dish is warm and enjoy the delightful combination of tender broccoli, crunchy crumbs, and savory cheese.

This Broccoli with crunchy garlic sourdough crumbs recipe is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, and feta adds richness, while the sourdough crumbs provide a satisfying crunch. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, this dish is sure to please your taste buds.

Broccoli with crunchy garlic sourdough crumbs FAQ:

What is the best way to ensure the broccoli is cooked to the right doneness?

Blanch the broccoli in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Plunging it into ice water immediately afterward halts the cooking process, preserving its color and texture.

Can I prepare the crunchy garlic crumbs in advance?

Yes, you can make the toasted rye breadcrumbs ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crunchiness.

What can I use instead of rye bread for the crumbs?

You can substitute rye bread with whole grain or sourdough bread for different flavor profiles. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to toast well.

How do I store leftovers of the broccoli dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The breadcrumbs may lose their crunch, so consider adding fresh crumbs when reheating.

How can I adjust the recipe for a vegan version?

For a vegan version, replace the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute, and omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Tips:

- Ensure that the broccoli is cut into even-sized florets to ensure uniform cooking.

- Use day-old sourdough bread for the crumbs, as it will provide a better texture compared to fresh bread.

- Toast the garlic in butter until golden brown to enhance its flavor, but be careful not to burn it as it can turn bitter.

- For extra crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds to the crumb mixture.

- Finish the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich flavors.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 200kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 3.96g
Sugar 2.46g
Fat 11g

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