If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional savory baking, the Broccoli and Feta Brownies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine bite-sized squares packed with tender broccoli, tangy feta, and a melty mix of mozzarella and pecorino, all bound together in a moist, fluffy batter. This unique dish balances fresh vegetables and rich cheeses, making it perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. It’s a creative way to squeeze in some greens without sacrificing flavor, and once you taste these, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Broccoli and Feta Brownies Recipe lies in its simple, readily available ingredients that each bring their own special touch. From the freshness of scallions and dill to the creamy, salty punch of feta and pecorino cheeses, every element plays a role in making these brownies unforgettable.
- 7 oz broccoli florets: Provides a tender, earthy veggie base and beautiful green flecks throughout.
- 1 tsp olive oil (for sautéing): Enhances scallion flavor and adds a subtle richness.
- 4 scallions, diced: Adds a mild oniony crunch and freshness.
- 3 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Offers a fragrant, herbaceous lift that pairs perfectly with feta.
- 1¼ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour/gluten-free flour): The foundation of the batter, adjust as needed for texture.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the brownies a lovely rise and fluffy texture.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten: Binds everything together while enriching the dish.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled: The star of the show with its tangy, salty bite.
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into creamy pockets for gooey goodness.
- 3 tbsp grated pecorino cheese: Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, cheesy crust with a hint of sharpness.
How to Make Broccoli and Feta Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Dish
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s perfectly heated when you’re ready to bake. Lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with olive oil, creating a non-stick surface that helps the brownies bake evenly and come out effortlessly.
Step 2: Blanch and Chop the Broccoli
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the broccoli florets for just one minute. This quick blanching brightens the broccoli’s color and softens its bite without turning it mushy. After draining, place the broccoli on paper towels to remove excess moisture, then roughly chop it so the green pieces disperse beautifully throughout the batter.
Step 3: Sauté the Scallions
Using the same pot (now wiped clean), heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced scallions for about a minute until soft and fragrant. This step mellows their sharpness and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the cheeses perfectly. Set the scallions aside once they’re ready.
Step 4: Whisk the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, eggs, and ¼ cup olive oil, mixing everything until the batter thickens slightly. If it feels too thin, simply incorporate more flour a tablespoon at a time to reach that perfect, thick consistency that will hold the veggies and cheese well.
Step 5: Fold in the Fresh Ingredients
Gently fold in the chopped broccoli, sautéed scallions, fresh dill, crumbled feta, and shredded mozzarella. Be careful not to overmix; you want a uniform batter with delightful pockets of cheese and vibrant green veggies throughout.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle grated pecorino cheese over the top to create a golden, crispy crust. Lightly spray with olive oil, then pop the dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the surface turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the broccoli and feta brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set, making slicing much easier and less messy. Then cut into squares and get ready to enjoy this savory sensation!
How to Serve Broccoli and Feta Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra fresh dill or some finely chopped scallions on top after baking. A drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest can also brighten the flavors beautifully and add vibrant color that makes these brownies look just as amazing as they taste.
Side Dishes
These brownies are wonderfully versatile. Serve them alongside fresh garden salads or a tangy yogurt-based dip to balance the richness. They also pair marvelously with roasted tomatoes or a simple cucumber raita, turning your meal into a delightful Mediterranean-inspired experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual get-togethers, arrange these brownies on a platter with small bowls of hummus, olives, and crisp flatbreads. You can also stack them like mini sandwiches with a smear of garlic aioli or even use them as a savory brunch item with eggs on the side. The options are endless, and each presentation highlights the broccoli and feta brownies recipe’s unique charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, you can store leftover broccoli and feta brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh, moist, and full of flavor, so you can enjoy them as a quick snack or addition to lunch the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep these brownies for a longer time, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the brownies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes to restore their crispiness and warmth. If you’re in a rush, a quick zap in the microwave works too but may leave them a bit softer. The oven method is best for preserving that lovely golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta is key for the tangy flavor, you can substitute with goat cheese, halloumi, or even a sharp cheddar for a different but equally delicious taste. Just keep the saltiness in mind since some cheeses are saltier than others.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make it gluten-free by swapping all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just watch the batter consistency and adjust the flour quantities slightly if needed.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding finely chopped spinach, grated carrots, or even roasted red peppers to add new flavors and colors. Just make sure to not overload the batter to keep the texture balanced.
How long do these brownies last once baked?
They stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best taste, enjoy them within that window or freeze if you plan to keep them longer.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These brownies make excellent meal prep additions because they are easy to portion, store well, and reheat beautifully, making lunches or snacks hassle-free and full of flavor throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love making and sharing this Broccoli and Feta Brownies Recipe. It’s a remarkable blend of fresh vegetables, robust cheeses, and a comforting baked texture that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re serving them to family, friends, or just treating yourself, these brownies are sure to become a cherished favorite. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every flavorful, cheesy bite!
Print
Broccoli and Feta Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Savory Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Broccoli and Feta Brownies are a savory twist on a traditional sweet treat, combining tender broccoli florets, sharp feta, and a blend of cheeses baked into a golden, flavorful dish. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, this recipe balances fresh herbs and cheeses with wholesome ingredients for a delicious and unique bake.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 7 oz broccoli florets
- 4 scallions, diced
- 3 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Dry Ingredients
- 1¼ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour/gluten-free flour)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt (plus 1 tsp for boiling water)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tsp olive oil (for sautéing scallions)
Cheese
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3 tbsp grated pecorino cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil with 1 tsp salt. Add the broccoli florets and boil for 1 minute. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain and dry thoroughly. Roughly chop the broccoli after drying.
- Sauté the scallions: Drain the boiled water and wipe the pot clean. Heat 1 tsp olive oil over medium-high heat, add the diced scallions, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Set aside.
- Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and 1 tsp salt. Add the milk, lightly beaten eggs, and ¼ cup olive oil. Mix until the batter thickens. If the batter is too runny, gradually add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Fold in the ingredients: Gently fold the chopped broccoli, sautéed scallions, chopped dill, crumbled feta, and shredded mozzarella into the batter, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the batter mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly using a spatula. Sprinkle the top with grated pecorino cheese and lightly spray with olive oil to encourage browning.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set before slicing into pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Adjust the salt according to your taste and cheese saltiness.
- Make sure to dry the broccoli well after boiling to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- These brownies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute with vegan cheese alternatives and use a plant-based milk.
