Broccoli Panzanella With Walnut Sauce And Basil Recipes

BROCCOLI PANZANELLA WITH WALNUT SAUCE AND BASIL

Steps:

• For the broccoli: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, olive oil, garlic and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spread across a baking sheet or shallow roasting pan, and roast until the broccoli is crisp-tender, and is beginning to brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare walnut sauce.
• For the walnut sauce: In a dry skillet or toaster oven, toast the walnut pieces until fragrant and lightly browned. Place in a blender with garlic, olive oil and lemon zest. Blend until smooth, adding just enough water to make a thick yet pourable sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• For assembly: Spread the diced bread on a baking sheet and bake until crisp and golden, 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and add lemon juice, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Add broccoli (there should be equal parts broccoli to bread), and mix lightly.
• On a serving platter or in a shallow bowl, spread the walnut sauce and pile the broccoli and panzanella on top. Garnish with julienned basil and, if desired, shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano.

BROCCOLI PANZANELLA

Steps:

• For the broccoli: Preheat the oven to 425 F. Cut broccoli into small florets. In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, olive oil, red pepper flakes and garlic. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Spread across a baking sheet and roast until the broccoli is crisp-tender and beginning to brown, 15-20 minutes.
• For the walnut sauce: Place walnuts, water, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a blender and blend until smooth. (The amount of water should be such that the sauce is thick, yet pourable.) Add lemon juice and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more garlic (optional). Blend again; add lemon zest and salt and pepper as needed.
• For the panzanella: Place bread cubes in a bowl with basil, olive oil, Parmesan, and lemon juice. Toss and press down to absorb the flavors. Add more oil, lemon, salt, and pepper as needed. The consistency should be "saucy."
• For assembly: Mix the roasted broccoli into the panzanella. Taste, and adjust the salt and pepper. On a serving platter, spread walnut sauce and pile broccoli and panzanella on top. Garnish with more Parmesan shavings, olive oil, and a basil sprig (optional).