BROCCOLI TOASTS WITH MELTY PROVOLONE

Broccoli Toasts With Melty Provolone image

Provided by Colu Henry

Time 35m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

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Kosher salt
1 head of broccoli, about 1 pound, trimmed and cut into small florets
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 anchovy fillets, roughly chopped (optional)
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
Black pepper
6 (3/4-inch thick) slices of a 10-inch round peasant loaf
3 ounces grated provolone, preferably extra-sharp

Steps:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain broccoli and pat dry.
Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch tall-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the anchovies, if using, the garlic and red-pepper flakes and cook until the anchovies have dissolved and the garlic is fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the broccoli and cook, stirring occasionally until the broccoli is cooked down and very tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add a tablespoon or two of water, if needed, to help it along. Stir in lemon zest. Taste and season with salt and pepper, if needed.
While the broccoli cooks, heat the broiler. Lay the bread on a large sheet pan and toast until golden, about 1 to 3 minutes a side depending on your oven. (Check often to make sure they don't burn.) Remove from oven and divide the broccoli mixture between the toasts. Scatter each toast with the grated provolone, return to oven and broil until the cheese melts and turns golden in spots, 1 to 3 minutes more. (Again, check often to make sure they don't burn.) Remove from oven and serve slices whole or cut in half.