Stalk-Up On Holiday Savings with Broccoli

By Katie Barreira
For Cooking Newbie, a blog for beginner cooks

Doing any entertaining this holiday season? You may have the makings of a simple and remarkably healthy appetizer in the crisper right now and not even know it. Roasted, stir-fried or smothered in cheese, broccoli is one of my favorite fall veggies, but I tend to gravitate towards the dark green florets, relegating that clunky stalk to the trashcan. What a waste! Especially during a time of year when every penny saved is a present earned.

These addictively pop-able broccoli bites are so tasty guests may have trouble believing that they’re eating the infamous veggie.

To get the recipe and shopping list on your smartphone (iPhone, BlackBerry, Android device) or PC, click here.

Broccoli Coins
Makes about 1 cup

Stalks from 2 heads broccoli, trimmed
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 small clove garlic, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the broccoli stalks, removing the woody [knobs]. Slice stalks crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick coins.
2. In a colander, toss the broccoli coins with the salt; let sit 10 minutes. Rinse under cold water. Lay coins out on paper towel and pat dry.
3. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the garlic, sugar, vinegar, oil and red pepper flakes; stir to dissolve sugar. Add broccoli and toss. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving.

Three more ideas for using peeled broccoli stalks:

1. Chop, steam and puree with broth and a touch of cream for a luscious soup.
2. Shred using the shredding disk on the food processor; toss with shredded carrots, golden raisins and a creamy dressing for broccoli slaw.
3. Slice into 1-inch pieces and boil in salted water until very tender and mash with potatoes for a healthier Thanksgiving side dish.

Special Fork is a recipe website for your smartphone and PC that solves the daily dinnertime dilemma: what to cook now! Our bloggers blog Monday through Friday to give you cooking inspiration. Check out our recipe database for quick ideas that take no more than 30 minutes of prep time. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.

Related posts:

1. The Last Big Holiday Party, Ever
2. Some Quick Meals to Survive the Holiday Frenzy
3. Holiday Rolls Two Ways
4. Easy Holiday Tips from the Georgia Governor’s Mansion
5. Taming the Taste for Wild Mushrooms