Broccoli is one of the most healthful
foods you can eat--a real nutritional powerhouse. Along with a rich supply of
vitamins and minerals--notably vitamin C, folate (folic acid), and potassium--it
contains the phytochemical sulforaphane, which helps reduce the risk of cancer.
In addition, broccoli contains a good amount of beta-carotene. And, unless you
drown it in cheese sauce, broccoli is (like all green vegetables) low in
calories and virtually fat-free.
Broccoli-Bleu Cheese Casserole
2 10 oz. packages frozen chopped broccoli
2 T. butter
2 T. flour
1/2 C. milk
1/2 C. half and half
3 oz. cream cheese
1/4 C. crumbled bleu cheese
1/2 C. slivered almonds
1/2 C. seasoned croutons
salt and pepper to taste
Place broccoli in a colander. Rinse with hot tap water. Drain and set aside.
Melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour, stirring until smooth. Gradually add
milk and cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Add
salt and pepper to taste. Stir in bleu cheese. Stir until cheese is melted.
Stir the broccoli into the sauce. Pour into a buttered 2 qt. casserole dish. Top
with almonds and croutons.
Bake at 350°F for 20 - 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
