Broccolini Cheddar Melt

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Rinse the broccolini and chop it into 1/2 inch-long pieces. In a skillet on medium-high heat, cook the broccolini and the garlic in the oil for 4 or 5 minutes, until the broccolini is bright green and just tender. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add about 1/4 cup of water to the pan and steam the broccolini until the water has evaporated. Remove from the heat.

   Step 2

   While the broccolini cooks, toast the bread. Grate the cheese or cut it into thin slices. Spread mustard on the toast and place on a broiler pan.

   Step 3

   Top each piece of toast with cooked broccolini and then cheese. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbling, 3 to 5 minutes. Serve hot, open-faced.

2. Ingredient Note

   Step 4

   Broccolini, a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale, was introduced in supermarket produce departments a few years ago. It is milder tasting and more tender than broccoli, and the stalks don’t need to be peeled.

3. Serving & menu idea

   Step 5

   For soup and sandwich night, have some Red Bean, Potato & Arugula Soup (page 124).