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If you’re after a unique savory treat that brings together vibrant greens and tangy cheese in a way you never expected, the Broccoli and Feta Savory Brownies Recipe is here to surprise and delight. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into golden, flavorful bites filled with tender broccoli florets, zesty feta, and a melty mozzarella finish. It’s an unexpectedly comforting dish that works as a snack, appetizer, or even a side—full of texture, freshness, and warmth that will make you want to keep this recipe close forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Broccoli and Feta Savory Brownies Recipe lies in its simple, well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, from the fresh broccoli that adds vibrant green color and gentle crunch, to the trio of cheeses that bring creamy, salty depth to every bite.
- 7 oz broccoli florets: Fresh and crisp, these are quickly blanched to maintain color and texture.
- 1 tsp olive oil (for sautéing): Adds a subtle fruitiness, perfect for softening the scallions.
- 4 scallions, diced: Brings mild onion flavor and a lovely crunch contrast.
- 3 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: A fresh herbal note that brightens the batter beautifully.
- 1¼ cup all-purpose flour (or almond/gluten-free flour): The foundation to hold everything together, easy to substitute for dietary needs.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures a light texture without being cakey.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially the cheeses.
- 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and tenderness.
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten: Bind everything while contributing richness.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Keeps the brownies moist and flavorful.
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled: The star tangy cheese that defines this brownie.
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded: Adds gooey meltiness that’s irresistible.
- 3 tbsp grated pecorino cheese: Sprinkled on top for a golden, savory crust.
How to Make Broccoli and Feta Savory Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and prep your baking dish
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to go when your batter is mixed. Lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with olive oil; this ensures the brownies won’t stick and makes for perfect slices every time.
Step 2: Blanch the broccoli
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your broccoli florets and boil for just 1 minute to soften while preserving their bright green color. Drain and lay them on paper towels to dry; this step helps avoid soggy brownies later. Once dry, give the florets a rough chop to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
Step 3: Sauté the scallions
Using the same pot, wipe it clean and heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced scallions and sauté for about a minute, just until they’re fragrant and slightly softened. This quick step releases their sweetness and adds depth to the savory brownies.
Step 4: Mix the batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add milk, eggs, and olive oil, stirring until the batter thickens. If it feels too runny, sprinkle in a tablespoon more flour at a time until it holds together nicely – this helps keep the structure sturdy but tender.
Step 5: Fold in the flavorful additions
Gently fold the chopped broccoli, sautéed scallions, fresh dill, crumbled feta, and shredded mozzarella into your batter. This step ensures all those tasty bits are evenly spread out, so every brownie slice is packed with savory goodness.
Step 6: Bake to golden perfection
Pour the mixture into your prepared dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the top with grated pecorino cheese for a punch of flavor and a crisp, slightly salty crust. Lightly spray the surface with olive oil to aid browning. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is gorgeously golden and firm to the touch.
Step 7: Cool and slice
Once baked, let your savory brownies rest in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps them set for cleaner slices. Then, cut into 12 squares and prepare to impress anyone who tastes this unexpectedly delicious dish.
How to Serve Broccoli and Feta Savory Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped dill or parsley on top add a burst of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate these brownies into a gourmet treat.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a crisp garden salad or roasted tomatoes to add bright flavors and textures. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh cucumber yogurt dip or a tangy tomato chutney for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into smaller squares for party platters or stack them with layers of greens and roasted peppers as a savory sandwich. These brownies even work beautifully crumbled on top of soups or alongside a charcuterie board to surprise your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover broccoli and feta savory brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor and texture well, making them an excellent option for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to keep these savory brownies for longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze wonderfully for up to 2 months without losing their deliciousness.
Reheating
To reheat, remove from the fridge or freezer, then warm in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—about 10-15 minutes for refrigerated, and 20-25 minutes if frozen. This method preserves their crisp top and soft interior far better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?
Absolutely! While broccoli gives this savory brownie its signature flavor and texture, chopped spinach, zucchini, or kale can be great alternatives. Just make sure to remove excess moisture to prevent sogginess.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or almond flour. The texture might be slightly different but still wonderfully satisfying and packed with flavor.
Can I use different cheeses instead of feta and mozzarella?
You can experiment with cheeses like goat cheese, cheddar, or gouda, but keep the balance of salty and melty cheeses in mind to maintain that distinctive savory brownie charm.
How do I know when the brownies are fully baked?
The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, with perhaps a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Are these brownies suitable for meal prep or lunches?
Definitely! They store well and reheat nicely, making them perfect for prepping ahead for work or school lunches that don’t feel boring or repetitive.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Broccoli and Feta Savory Brownies Recipe—it turns everyday ingredients into an unforgettable treat bursting with flavor, texture, and heartiness. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, these savory brownies are destined to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. Give them a try and watch how quickly they become a go-to comfort food star!
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Print
Broccoli and Feta Savory 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 savory Broccoli and Feta Brownies combine fresh broccoli florets, tangy feta, and melted mozzarella cheese into a unique, baked dish that’s perfect for a wholesome snack or a light meal. Enhanced with fresh dill and scallions, these flavorful brownies bake to a golden perfection with a crispy top, delivering a delightful blend of textures and a rich cheesy aroma.
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
Dairy and Eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3 tbsp grated pecorino cheese
Oils and Others
- 1 tsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- ¼ cup olive oil (for batter)
- Olive oil spray (for baking dish and topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Prepare Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the broccoli florets and boil for 1 minute. Remove the broccoli and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain and dry thoroughly. Once dry, chop the broccoli roughly.
- Sauté Scallions: Empty and clean the pot, then heat 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced scallions for 1 minute just until they soften slightly. Set aside to cool.
- Make Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add the milk, lightly beaten eggs, and ¼ cup olive oil, mixing until the batter thickens. If the batter is too runny, incorporate more flour, one tablespoon at a time, to achieve a thicker consistency.
- Fold in Ingredients: Gently fold the chopped broccoli, sautéed scallions, chopped dill, crumbled feta, and shredded mozzarella cheese into the batter until evenly combined.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula. Sprinkle the top with grated pecorino cheese and lightly spray with olive oil to facilitate browning.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until the surface turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature as a savory treat.
Notes
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to avoid soggy brownies.
- Adding more grated cheese on top before baking gives a richer, more flavorful crust.
- These brownies can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave for best texture.
- Adjust baking time slightly based on your oven’s performance to avoid over or under-baking.
