Name: Citrus Broccoli with Cashews
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds broccoli florets; 2 pitted dates; 1/2 cup coconut aminos; 1/4 cup orange juice; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced; 1 pinch cayenne; 1 cup raw cashews; 2 teaspoons potato starch

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Let me introduce you to one of my favorite dishes: Citrus Broccoli with Cashews. Every time I prepare it, memories flood back of sunny spring afternoons spent with friends, laughter ringing through the air, and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. This dish is my go-to for those moments when I want something light, fresh, and utterly satisfying. With its vibrant flavors and delightful crunch from the cashews, it’s become a beloved addition to my dinner table. I never get tired of watching the colors dance together in the pan, and I can’t help but smile every time I share it with loved ones.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
10g g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20g g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Grater, Blender, Skillet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

The Appeal of This Citrus Broccoli with Cashews

It’s Packed with Nutrients

The combination of broccoli and cashews not only makes for a delicious pair but also packs a serious nutrient punch. Broccoli is rich in vitamins K and C, while cashews bring healthy fats and protein to the mix. This recipe offers a balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a wholesome meal.

Versatile & Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about Citrus Broccoli with Cashews is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a side dish or make it the centerpiece of your meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s so easy to prepare that you’ll find yourself making it on repeat!

Unique Flavor Profile

The citrus element, thanks to the orange juice and coconut aminos, elevates this dish to another level. The sweetness from the dates and the heat from the cayenne create a delightful balance that tantalizes taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!

Great for All Occasions

From casual lunches to festive dinners, Citrus Broccoli with Cashews is a showstopper. It’s perfect for spring gatherings or even as a refreshing dish to enjoy during the summer months. Your friends and family will be asking for the recipe, and I guarantee it will be a hit wherever you serve it.

A Vibrant Dish

The visual appeal of this dish cannot be overstated. The bright green of the broccoli, the golden hue of the cashews, and the glossy sauce create a feast for the eyes. It’s like a celebration on a plate, making it hard to resist diving right in!

Simple Ingredients, Big Impact

With just a few simple ingredients, Citrus Broccoli with Cashews showcases how easy it can be to prepare something that feels gourmet. You don’t need to rely on fancy techniques or hard-to-find products, making it accessible for everyone to try.

Main Ingredients for Citrus Broccoli with Cashews

In this dish, we focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The star of the show is undoubtedly the broccoli, which brings a satisfying crunch and a wealth of nutrients. Paired with cashews for texture and added richness, along with the sweet and zesty flavors of orange juice and coconut aminos, this combination is not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing.

2 pounds broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, providing a nutritious base.
2 pitted dates: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the dish.
1/2 cup coconut aminos: A savory and slightly sweet sauce that enhances the flavor.
1/4 cup orange juice: Brings a citrusy brightness that elevates the dish.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds a warm spice that complements the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced: A staple for depth of flavor.
1 pinch cayenne: Provides a hint of heat to the dish.
1 cup raw cashews: Adds crunch and richness, making the dish hearty.
2 teaspoons potato starch: Helps thicken the sauce for a perfect coating.

How to Cook Citrus Broccoli with Cashews

Cooking Citrus Broccoli with Cashews is a delightfully simple process that results in a fantastic dish every time. Follow these steps closely to ensure everything comes together perfectly.

Start by weighing the florets of the broccoli instead of the whole head to ensure you have the right amount. Cut the florets into bite-sized pieces and make sure they’re well cleaned. Set them aside for later use.
In a blender, place the two pitted dates at the bottom. Pour in the coconut aminos, orange juice, fresh ginger, minced garlic, and a pinch of cayenne. Allow the dates to soak in this mixture for about ten minutes to soften them.
While the dates soak, take a nonstick skillet and toast the raw cashews over medium heat. Stir continuously for around eight minutes until they become fragrant and achieve a beautiful dark toasted color. This step is crucial, as it enhances the flavor of the cashews.
Once toasted, transfer the cashews into a bowl and reserve them. Now, blend the date mixture in the blender, starting on low and gradually increasing the speed. Blend for one to two minutes until the dates are fully incorporated into the liquid. You may need to scrape the sides to mix everything well.
In a small saucepan, whisk together two teaspoons of potato starch and half a cup of cold water until you achieve a smooth consistency. This will be your thickening agent for the sauce.
Add the blended mixture from the blender to the saucepan. Turn the heat to medium and continuously whisk until the sauce bubbles and thickens. Be diligent, as you’ll need to whisk vigorously to break up any clumps and achieve a sauce that resembles thick honey.
Once the sauce is at the right thickness, remove it from the heat and set it aside. Now, take your 6-quart pot and place the cleaned broccoli florets inside along with half a cup of water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, cover the pot tightly and allow the broccoli to steam for six to eight minutes. Look for the thickest florets to be tender yet vibrant green, ensuring they do not overcook.
After steaming, drain the broccoli in a colander, shaking it gently to remove any excess moisture. Return the drained broccoli to the pot.
Add the toasted cashews and the thickened sauce to the pot. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the broccoli and cashews are well mixed and coated with the delicious sauce. Serve warm and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Be gentle when tossing: When mixing the broccoli, cashews, and sauce, gently toss with a spatula rather than stirring vigorously to avoid breaking the florets.
Monitoring the heat: Keep an eye on the heat while toasting the cashews. If they burn, they can become bitter, affecting the overall flavor of the dish.
Timing is key: When steaming the broccoli, you want to ensure it’s cooked to a bright green and tender but still has a slight crunch. Overcooking can lead to mushiness.
Reserve some sauce: If you have extra sauce left over, it can be used as a dressing for salads or drizzled over grilled vegetables for added flavor.

Substitutions and Tips

When making Citrus Broccoli with Cashews, consider these helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the broccoli.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately. The broccoli may lose some texture when thawed.
Pairing: Serve this dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs well with quinoa or brown rice for a vegetarian option.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
Garnishing: Top with sesame seeds or fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal.
Cooking in bulk: This recipe is easily scalable. Simply double the ingredients to serve a crowd.

Side Dish Ideas for Citrus Broccoli with Cashews

This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with various side dishes and can elevate any meal. Here are some ideas:

Quinoa Salad: A zesty quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the Citrus Broccoli with Cashews.
Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken marinated in herbs and spices for a balanced protein source.
Brown Rice: A fluffy bed of brown rice absorbs the sauce beautifully and makes for a satisfying meal.
Whole Grain Bread: A slice of whole grain bread can be perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans tossed with garlic and olive oil provide a vibrant contrast in both color and flavor.
Fresh Fruit Salad: For a refreshing dessert, a light fruit salad with seasonal fruits rounds out the meal nicely.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish is suitable for casual family dinners, special gatherings, or even as a part of a festive holiday spread.

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare many components of Citrus Broccoli with Cashews ahead of time. You can chop the broccoli and soak the dates the day before. Just store them separately in the fridge. However, I recommend combining everything together just before serving to keep the broccoli fresh and vibrant.

Absolutely! The Citrus Broccoli with Cashews is already vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. The coconut aminos and orange juice contribute to its delicious flavor without using any animal ingredients, making it a perfect choice for plant-based diets.

Yes, if you have allergies or simply prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute cashews with other nuts like almonds or walnuts. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will slightly change, but it will still be delicious!

To store leftovers of Citrus Broccoli with Cashews, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking the broccoli and losing its bright color and crunch.

Conclusion

Citrus Broccoli with Cashews is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Its vibrant color and unique taste make it a standout option for any meal. I encourage you to try it for your next family dinner or gathering; it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!