Cypriot-style Broccoli Cake

Ingredients

In this Cypriot adaptation, the traditional Italian Torta di fioretto is transformed into a Cypriot-style Broccoli Cake by incorporating halloumi cheese, a staple in Cypriot cuisine. The addition of halloumi adds a unique and distinct flavor to the dish, giving it a Mediterranean twist. We alse have the original recipe for Torta di fioretto, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) broccoli florets 500g (1.1 lb) broccoli florets
• 200g (7 oz) halloumi cheese, grated 200g (7 oz) halloumi cheese, grated
• 150g (1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour 150g (1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 3g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.9g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   Steam the broccoli florets until tender, then chop them into small pieces.
3. 3.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Greek yogurt, and olive oil.
4. 4.
   Add the grated halloumi cheese, chopped broccoli, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the mixture into the greased cake pan and smooth the top.
6. 6.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Broccoli — Make sure to steam the broccoli until it is tender but still retains its vibrant green color. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture.
• Halloumi cheese — Grate the halloumi cheese using a box grater for easy incorporation into the cake batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can sauté the chopped broccoli in olive oil with some garlic before incorporating it into the cake batter.
• Serve the Cypriot-style Broccoli Cake warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• This cake can be enjoyed on its own or served with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a refreshing twist.

Serving advice

Slice the Cypriot-style Broccoli Cake into wedges and serve it as a main course with a side salad or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. It can also be enjoyed as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Cypriot-style Broccoli Cake with a sprinkle of grated halloumi cheese and a few fresh broccoli florets for an appealing presentation. Serve it on a platter or individual plates for an elegant touch.