Skeptical? This recipe for a smashed broccoli vegan grilled cheese will convince you that broccoli absolutely belongs! With vegan shredded cheese, cream cheese, steamed smashed broccoli, and pesto, it's a savory and satisfying plant-based sandwich.
Toast two slices of sourdough to your liking. Spread/layer vegan shredded cheese onto one slice, then broil that slice for 3 minutes at 500F until the cheese has melted. Add vegan cream cheese. To prepare the broccoli, add about 1 cup of broccoli florets to a microwave-safe dish with an inch of water at the bottom. Toss in seasoning, then cover with a paper towel. Steam in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender. Remove from the bowl, drain excess water, and smash before adding to the sandwich. Layer on vegan pesto. Sandwich the pieces together. Brush both sides of the sandwich with pesto (or butter/oil). Cook on the stovetop for 2-3 minutes on each side or until crispy and the cheese has melted. Slice and enjoy!