Broccoli, feta and almond baklava with pea purée

About the Recipe

This recipe features a delightful dish called "Broccoli, Feta and Almond Baklava with Pea Purée". It is a unique twist on the traditional baklava, incorporating nutritious ingredients such as broccoli, feta cheese, almonds, and pea purée. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to please your taste buds.

Nutritional Benefits

1. Broccoli: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants, broccoli is known for its cancer-fighting properties and its ability to support digestion and heart health.
2. Feta Cheese: Although feta cheese is high in sodium, it is also a good source of calcium and protein. It can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
3. Almonds: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium, almonds are known to promote heart health, manage weight, and support brain function.
4. Peas: Peas are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and protein. They offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits and can contribute to a healthy digestive system.

Ingredients

1. Broccoli florets
2. Feta cheese
3. Almonds
4. Phyllo pastry sheets
5. Peas
6. Garlic
7. Lemon juice
8. Olive oil
9. Honey
10. Fresh mint leaves
11. Salt

Processing Steps

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Steam the broccoli florets until tender, then chop them into small pieces.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, crumbled feta cheese, and crushed almonds.
4. Step 4: Lay a sheet of phyllo pastry on a baking tray and brush it with olive oil. Repeat this process with several more phyllo pastry sheets.
5. Step 5: Spread the broccoli, feta, and almond mixture evenly over the pastry sheets.
6. Step 6: Layer another set of phyllo pastry sheets over the mixture, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown.
8. Step 8: While the baklava is baking, prepare the pea purée by blending peas, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a food processor.
9. Step 9: Once the baklava is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. Step 10: Cut the baklava into squares or rectangles and serve it with a dollop of pea purée and a drizzle of honey. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Tips and Recommendations

In order to make the most of this delicious recipe, here are some tips and recommendations:
- Make sure to thoroughly wash the broccoli florets before steaming them to remove any dirt or debris.
- When layering the phyllo pastry sheets, be gentle to avoid tearing them.
- If you prefer a smoother texture for the pea purée, you can pass it through a fine-mesh strainer before serving.
- Serve the baklava with pea purée immediately after assembling to maintain its crispiness.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding additional herbs or spices to the broccoli, feta, and almond mixture.
- Enjoy this dish as a main course by pairing it with a fresh salad or as an appetizer for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Shopping List:

1. Broccoli florets
2. Feta cheese
3. Almonds
4. Phyllo pastry sheets
5. Peas
6. Garlic
7. Lemon juice
8. Olive oil
9. Honey
10. Fresh mint leaves
11. Salt