These Broccoli and Feta Brownie Bars redefine the way you enjoy vegetables in a baked treat. With a golden, crispy exterior and a cheesy, flavorful interior, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Each bite delivers a burst of savory feta, melted mozzarella, and fresh dill, enhancing the delicate earthiness of the broccoli.
Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The simple yet wholesome ingredients make them easy to prepare, and they offer a fun twist on traditional baked goods. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, and don’t forget to share!
Full Recipe:
- 7 oz broccoli florets
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 4 scallions, diced
- 3 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1¼ cups flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese
- 3 tbsp grated pecorino cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 10½ x 7½” baking dish with olive oil.
- In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and 1 tsp salt. Let boil for 1 minute, then remove and dry on a paper towel-lined plate. Roughly chop.
- Drain and wipe clean the pot, then heat 1 tsp olive oil. Sauté the scallions for 1 minute over medium-high heat. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk, eggs, and ¼ cup olive oil. Mix until a thick batter forms. If too runny, add flour 1 tbsp at a time.
- Fold in feta, mozzarella, broccoli, scallions, and dill.
- Transfer to the baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle pecorino on top and lightly spray with olive oil.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes
Kcal: 173 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Broccoli and Feta Brownie Bars: A Savory Twist on a Classic Treat
Broccoli and Feta Brownie Bars are a unique and flavorful take on traditional brownies. Unlike their sweet counterpart, these bars combine the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the tangy richness of feta cheese to create a savory, satisfying dish. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, these bars offer a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still indulging in a cheesy, crispy delight.
A Unique and Nutritious Savory Treat
Most people associate brownies with chocolate and sweetness, but this recipe flips the script by introducing a savory alternative. The inspiration behind these bars comes from the classic combination of broccoli and cheese, which is well-loved in casseroles, soups, and other comfort foods. By turning these ingredients into a baked, portable snack, you get all the flavors you love in a new and exciting way.
One of the biggest advantages of these bars is their nutritional value. Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable packed with vitamins C, K, and A, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Feta cheese, on the other hand, adds a boost of protein and calcium while keeping the dish light and tangy. Combined with mozzarella and a hint of pecorino, these bars have the perfect balance of creaminess, saltiness, and texture.
The Secret to the Perfect Texture
A key highlight of these Broccoli and Feta Brownie Bars is their irresistibly crispy exterior. When baked at the right temperature, the top layer of the bars forms a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy center. This happens due to the combination of olive oil and grated pecorino cheese sprinkled on top before baking. The slight crispiness enhances every bite, making them more enjoyable and satisfying.
The consistency of the batter also plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture. Unlike traditional brownies, which rely on sugar and butter for structure, these savory bars use a mixture of flour, eggs, and olive oil to create a sturdy yet moist base. The result is a firm but tender bite that holds together well, making these bars ideal for serving at parties, picnics, or even packed lunches.
A Versatile and Customizable Recipe
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to fit different dietary needs and preferences. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend without compromising texture or taste. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use a light version of feta and mozzarella.
You can also experiment with different cheese combinations. While feta brings a bold, tangy flavor, you can swap it with goat cheese for an even creamier bite, or with cheddar for a sharper taste. Adding more herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes, can further enhance the depth of flavor.
For those who love a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or even chopped nuts on top before baking. These additions will not only make the bars visually appealing but also add an extra layer of texture.
Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
These Broccoli and Feta Brownie Bars are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They work well as a quick grab-and-go snack but can also be dressed up for more formal occasions. If you’re serving them at a gathering, consider pairing them with a light yogurt dip, hummus, or a tangy tzatziki sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
For a complete meal, you can serve these bars alongside a fresh salad, such as a Mediterranean cucumber and tomato salad, or a simple arugula and lemon vinaigrette mix. The combination of crisp greens and warm, cheesy bars creates a perfectly balanced dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a breakfast option, these bars can be a great alternative to traditional egg-based dishes. Simply warm them up in the morning and serve with a side of scrambled eggs or smoked salmon for a protein-packed start to the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Broccoli and Feta Brownie Bars. First, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The prep time is minimal, and they bake up beautifully in less than an hour.
They’re also a great way to sneak more vegetables into your diet, especially for picky eaters who might not usually enjoy broccoli. The creamy cheese and crispy crust make them irresistible, even for those who aren’t big fans of greens.
Additionally, these bars store well and can be enjoyed throughout the week. Simply keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for several days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, making them a great option for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Broccoli and Feta Brownie Bars are the perfect fusion of health and indulgence. They bring together the best of both worlds—nutritious vegetables and rich, satisfying cheese—while offering a delightful texture that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or a healthy meal option, these bars are sure to impress. With their versatility, easy preparation, and delicious taste, they are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy a whole new take on savory baking!