When it comes to incorporating more veggies into your diet, few options are as versatile or nutritious as broccoli and cauliflower. These cruciferous superstars are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help boost your overall health and well-being. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to work with in a variety of dishes.
From savory main courses to satisfying sides and even sweet treats, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering broccoli and cauliflower recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a healthy snack to fuel your day, these recipes have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything from classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional dishes. You’ll discover ways to enjoy broccoli and cauliflower roasted, sautéed, steamed, and even blended into creamy soups and smoothies. And with their mild flavors and impressive nutritional profiles, it’s no wonder these veggies have become staples in many a health-conscious kitchen.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Broccoli and Cauliflower
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Broccoli and Cauliflower Recipe
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This hearty side dish combines the natural sweetness of broccoli and cauliflower with the savory flavors of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 heads broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
– 4-6 cloves garlic, peeled and separated
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli and cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Meanwhile, place garlic cloves on a separate baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and roast for 15-20 minutes or until soft and mashed.
6. Toss roasted broccoli and cauliflower with mashed garlic, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Broccoli and Cauliflower Soup
Creamy Broccoli and Cauliflower Soup Recipe
This velvety soup is a delightful twist on traditional broccoli soup, adding the subtle sweetness of cauliflower to create a deliciously comforting meal. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying and nutritious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add broccoli and cauliflower florets, cooking for 5 minutes or until tender.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are very tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer soup to a blender and blend, then return to pot.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Healthy Broccoli and Cauliflower Stir-Fry
Add some crunch and nutrition to your meal with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe featuring broccoli and cauliflower, two superfood vegetables. This dish is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of protein (chicken, tofu, or shrimp work well)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the broccoli and cauliflower and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using protein, add it to the skillet and cook until cooked through.
6. Serve hot over your choice of grain or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the nutty flavors of broccoli and cauliflower with a rich, cheesy sauce, perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli and cauliflower in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture; stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked broccoli and cauliflower with the cheese sauce.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the health benefits of broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy, tangy lemon tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss broccoli and cauliflower with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted broccoli and cauliflower. Pour the lemon tahini dressing over the top and toss to coat.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower with Turmeric
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional roasted vegetables, adding a kick of heat and a burst of turmeric’s bright yellow color. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, ghee or oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
5. Sprinkle turmeric powder over the roasted vegetables and return to the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the color is evenly distributed.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the natural sweetness of broccoli and cauliflower with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, all wrapped up in a savory rice base. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with vitamins and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 head broccoli, florets only
– 1 head cauliflower, florets only
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add broccoli and cauliflower florets; cook for 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Combine cooked rice with vegetable mixture and season with salt and pepper.
6. Stir in Greek yogurt until well combined.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Broccoli and Cauliflower Tots
Baked Broccoli and Cauliflower Tots Recipe
Summary: A crispy and delicious twist on traditional tots, featuring a medley of broccoli and cauliflower florets baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss broccoli and cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs over the vegetables, ensuring they’re well-coated.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Herbs
This creamy and flavorful side dish is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies. With the addition of garlic and herbs, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss broccoli and cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a large pot, sauté minced garlic in remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until fragrant.
5. Add roasted broccoli and cauliflower to the pot, along with broth and parsley.
6. Mash with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Curry with Coconut Milk
Transform cauliflower and broccoli into a flavorful and nutritious curry with the creamy richness of coconut milk. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3 cups of broccoli florets
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of curry powder
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower and broccoli; cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Broccoli and Cauliflower Steaks
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional roasted vegetables, this recipe brings out the best of broccoli and cauliflower with a smoky grilled twist. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 broccoli crowns
– 1-2 cauliflower heads
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into thick “steaks” (about 1-2 inches thick).
3. Brush both sides of the steaks with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavors (garlic powder, lemon juice, red pepper flakes).
4. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes total
Broccoli and Cauliflower Fritters with Yogurt Dip
A crispy and flavorful twist on traditional fritters, this recipe combines the nutritional benefits of broccoli and cauliflower with a tangy yogurt dip for a satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, chopped
– 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Yogurt dip ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cauliflower, flour, cornstarch, cheese (if using), and egg.
3. Mix until well combined.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Yogurt Dip:
1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the benefits of broccoli and cauliflower with the warmth of ginger and the savory taste of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the broccoli and cauliflower and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they start to soften.
3. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the vegetables are coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin with Almond Crumbs
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin topped with crunchy almond crumbs. A perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup almond crumbs (see note)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and cheddar cheese. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange roasted vegetables in an even layer. Pour the cream-cheese mixture evenly over the top.
6. Sprinkle almond crumbs over the gratin. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Buddha Bowl with Quinoa
A nourishing and flavorful bowl filled with roasted vegetables, quinoa, and a tangy tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup of quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of tahini
– 2 tablespoons of water
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini and water.
6. Assemble the Buddha Bowl by placing cooked quinoa at the bottom, topped with roasted broccoli and cauliflower, and drizzled with tahini dressing.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Pizza Crust
This innovative pizza crust recipe uses broccoli and cauliflower as the base instead of traditional flour, resulting in a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional pizza dough. Perfect for vegans and health-conscious pizza lovers!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (vegetarian)
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pulse broccoli and cauliflower in a food processor until well-chopped.
3. In a bowl, combine processed veggies, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, and egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then shape into a circle or rectangle.
5. Place the crust on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Pasta with Pesto
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted broccoli and cauliflower with creamy pesto sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted vegetables, pesto sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Stuffed Peppers
A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty flavors of broccoli and cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 head of broccoli, chopped
– 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli, cauliflower, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
4. Mix cooked rice with sautéed vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the vegetable mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Smoothie with Spinach and Banana
Kick-start your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie that combines the best of green vegetables, spinach, and banana.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 2 handfuls fresh spinach leaves
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or milk alternative
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a high-powered blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and enjoy.
This refreshing smoothie is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber from the broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach. The banana adds natural sweetness, while the almond milk or milk alternative provides creaminess. Enjoy as a healthy breakfast or post-workout snack.
Broccoli and Cauliflower Hummus with Whole Wheat Pita
This vibrant green hummus is a game-changer for healthy snack lovers. By incorporating broccoli and cauliflower, you’ll get an extra dose of vitamins and antioxidants in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup cooked cauliflower florets
– 1/4 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup whole wheat pita bread, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine broccoli, cauliflower, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve with toasted whole wheat pita bread for a satisfying snack.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get creative with these 20 delicious and healthy broccoli and cauliflower recipes, perfect for any meal! From classic comfort foods to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Enjoy roasted garlic parmesan broccoli and cauliflower, creamy soups, cheesy casseroles, and more. Try your hand at a spicy roasted dish, baked tots, or a flavorful curry. You’ll also find unique recipes like broccoli and cauliflower rice pilaf, mash with garlic and herbs, and even pizza crust! With these healthy and tasty ideas, you’ll never get bored with this dynamic duo of veggies again.
