Broccoli with Bacon and Parmesan

Broccoli, a very versatile vegetable in the cabbage and cauliflower family is bright green in color with a sharp peppery flavor. It can be eaten raw, creamed, steamed, roasted or fried; in casseroles, salads or just eaten raw as a snack. This recipe combines bacon and parmesan to create a very tasty side dish.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

2 cups broccoli florets, washed

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

4 slices good quality bacon, cooked, drained and crumbled

2 tablespoons bread crumbs

2 ounces Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Instructions:

Preheat oven 350 degrees F.

Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt and pepper, place on a baking sheet. Mix bacon, bread crumbs and cheese together. Top the broccoli with the bacon and cook in oven until cheese melts and broccoli is slightly tender, about 12-15 minutes.

If you prefer broccoli with less bite, precook in 3 tablespoons water in microwave (in a covered microwave safe dish) for 3 minutes, drain. Then proceed with the recipe by tossing broccoli with oil, salt and pepper.