Nourished. by Jenna

Broccoli sounds so boring. But let me tell you, this green cruciferous vegetable is so nutritious that it’s anything but boring. Broccoli is high in calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and vitamins A, C, E, and K. It is loaded with fiber, folic acid, chlorophyll, and many other phytochemicals. The phytochemicals found in broccoli have the ability to detoxify compounds and prevent toxic compounds from binding to DNA that could lead to cancer. In addition to lowering the risk of cancer, here are a few other potential benefits of eating green vegetables, like broccoli:

• blood purification
• improved circulation
• healthy vision
• healthy nerve function
• strengthened immune system
• neutralized acidic conditions within the body

One of my favorite (and easiest!) ways to eat broccoli is simply roasting it in the oven with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. However, I know many people won’t eat broccoli unless it’s smothered in cheese. So, how about a healthy compromise? Here is a super easy recipe for busy weeknights.

Broccoli Cheddar Grilled Cheese (serves 2)

• extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• salt & pepper
• 1-2 cups roasted broccoli (instructions below)
• 4 slices bread (use whatever bread you like – I used Ezekiel Sesame Bread for the sprouted whole grains)
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• butter, softened

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Chop, rinse, and drain florets from a head of broccoli. Toss the florets in a mixing bowl with enough EVOO to coat (about 1-2 Tbsp) and salt and pepper to taste. Spread onto a baking sheet; roast in oven about 10-12 min, or until tender. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Spread butter onto 1 side of each slice of bread. With buttered side down, layer 1 slice of cheese onto bread, followed by a layer of roasted broccoli, then another slice of cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up. Place onto a griddle over medium heat and toast for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

You can serve this with a side salad (extra greens are always a bonus!) or a cup of tomato soup. You’ll also probably end up with some leftover roasted broccoli, which is never a bad thing – you’ll already have a wonderful side dish prepared for dinner tomorrow night!