GREEK BROCCOLI

SERVES 2 to 4

Banish boring broccoli! In the time it takes to microwave a bag of frozen stuff, you can whip up this fresh side dish that brings the sun-dappled shores of the Aegean right into your kitchen. The tender broccoli and tangy-sweet tomatoes relax in a sauce that’s lightly flavored with Greek herbs. Opa!

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup water
• 1 pound fresh broccoli, broken into florets
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 cup fresh grape or cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large sauté pan, bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the broccoli, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and steam the broccoli until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Drain the broccoli in a colander and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Dry the pan and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, tomatoes, parsley, and oregano. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the tomatoes begin to pop. Add the broccoli, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well to combine. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasonings.