Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a dish that's not just delicious but also packed with nutrients? Introducing Lentil Broccoli Bites with Cream Sauce – a mouthwatering treat that will have your taste buds dancing and your health on track! These savory bites are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply looking for a satisfying snack. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy sauce, you'll find it hard to believe they're made with wholesome ingredients. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a dish that’s both comforting and guilt-free!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Cooked lentils
- Broccoli, chopped
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked lentils, 1 cup of chopped broccoli, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 beaten egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 small finely chopped onion.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the mixture is well-seasoned. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly combined.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Once all the bites are shaped, bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- While the lentil broccoli bites are baking, prepare the cream sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.
- Once the cream is simmering, add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the cream sauce, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. If desired, you can also add a pinch of garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
- After the lentil broccoli bites are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
- Serve the lentil broccoli bites warm, drizzled with the creamy Parmesan sauce, and enjoy your delicious American-style dish!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the lentil mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape and bake them when you're ready to serve!
- Customize Your Bites: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mixture for a personalized flavor. Fresh parsley or Italian seasoning can add a delightful twist.
- Perfect Consistency: If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of water or an extra egg to help bind it together. If it's too wet, sprinkle in more breadcrumbs.
- Crispier Bites: For an extra crispy texture, consider pan-frying the bites for a few minutes before baking them. This will give them a beautiful golden crust.
- Sauce Variations: Experiment with the cream sauce by adding different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile. A dash of hot sauce can also spice things up!
- Serving Suggestions: These bites pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or can be served as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy texture!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
