The avocado extravaganza that I eluded to last week continues today.
But here is the thing. These Sweet Potato and Broccoli Crostini with Avocado and Za’atar, in all their plant-based, carbolicious glory, seem rather trivial and trite at the moment. Because as you’ve probably noticed, things in this country are getting bad. Like real bad.
And yes, I know that this blog is a place for sharing recipes, photography and the occasional bad joke. I understand that those are the reasons why you’ve come here today, why you’ve visited in the past and why (hopefully) you’ll be back in the future. I get it. Really I do. And that is precisely why I don’t get overly personal in this space on a regular basis.
But to stand by and say nothing, seems wrong. Silence isn’t an option anymore. Things aren’t normal. And I can’t (and won’t) act like they are. I don’t support the decisions being made by our President. And I’m fighting those decisions in ways that I know how to do – like by signing petitions, donating money to reputable organizations, contacting my elected officials and joining protests.
I hope that many of you are doing some of these very same things.
I’m also eating my feelings. And I’m not ashamed to admit that these Sweet Potato and Broccoli Crostini with Avocado and Za’atar have been getting me through some tough moments. As an extreme lover of avocado toast, the combination of bread and smashed avocado has basically evolved into my version of comfort food. It soothes me. Screw alcoholic beverages, bubble baths and massages. Just give me avocado toast.
As with a lot of crostini recipes, this one is pretty customizable. Butternut squash would be great. You could try roasted cauliflower instead of the broccoli. And a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or agave nectar would be a nice addition, too. Oh and of course a little cheese never hurts. I left it out to keep these little appetizers vegan (just be sure to check the ingredient list on your bread). But goat cheese plus avocado is a favorite combination of mine, and I know it would work beautifully here in this recipe, if you’re so inclined.
Peace, love and respect.
Cheers,
Liz
Roasted Sweet Potato and Broccoli Crostini with Avocado and Za’atar
Ingredients
- 2 small sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp. salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice, divided
- 1 (12-ounce) French baguette, sliced
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and seeded
- About 1 tsp. za’atar seasoning
Instructions
- Pre-heat your oven to 425 degrees.
- Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, 1/2 tsp. of the salt and the black pepper. Spread the sweet potatoes out onto a large rimmed baking sheet and roast in your pre-heated oven for 10 minutes. The remove the baking sheet from your oven and add the broccoli and an additional tablespoon of olive oil. Stir to combine. Return the baking sheet to your oven and roast the vegetables for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they are soft and starting to brown in a few places. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Pre-heat your broiler. Spread the baguette slices out onto a second rimmed baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with the remaining olive oil. Then place the baguette slices under your broiler until they turn golden around the edges, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, scoop the flesh out of the avocados and add it to a medium bowl. Add the remaining tablespoon of lemon juice and the remaining 1/2 tsp. of salt. Then mash the avocados lightly with a fork.
- To assemble the crostini, spread some of the mashed avocado on the toasted baguette slices. Top with some of the roasted squash and broccoli. Sprinkle with za’atar seasoning. Serve and enjoy.
Amen sister, we can’t stand silent while this utterly awful thing is happening to real, good people. Let’s eat crostini and brainstorm ways to make this a better place. xo
Here’s to carbs and making our voices loud and clear!
i’m struggling between trying to make a stand because this world feels crazy and surreal and so unfair right now, but also trying to be an escape, but i also feel stupid to want to disconnect from it for a little bit, considering how some people are smack in the middle and can’t escape. (sorry for that run-on). sending warm wishes to you and every other advocate and victim (that sounds like an appropriate word).
anyways, i just tried za’atar a couple months ago, and it was so delicious just with olive oil and bread that i can’t imagine how much tastier on these crostini. commence stress eating.
Oh I’m so glad you’re discovering how delicious za’atar is! It’s one of my favorite seasoning blends! And I hear you on struggling with what to do. It’s not going to be an easy ride, that’s for sure.
I think this is how I’ll get my one year old to eat broccoli. 🙂 Beautiful as always!
I hope he turns into a broccoli lover!
Mmmm you make the best little toasts, Liz! Avocado is a pantry staple around here and one that I give into with regards to seasonal ingredients (like bananas too!!). These little toasties are a meal in themselves.. I’d devour them!
I’m feeling conflicted as well, Liz. I understand the need to share on our blogs, and also the need to keep our space less stressful. I feel like our country is a mess, politically. I can’t go one day without hearing or learning something new from the administration that makes me cringe. The only thing that gives me relief is that this is temporary and there are at least a few in congress fighting back. Additionally, it has mobilized so many and brought to light that we, as citizens, need to show up in the political process – this is a general statement, but obviously this last election showed how apathy can shape the future of a society. I SO appreciate your sharing your thoughts, ideas and how you’re moving forward to afford change! YOU are an inspiration! xo
Awww…thanks, Traci. Yeah, I definitely don’t plan to turn this space into one giant political rant. But I couldn’t just say nothing and pretend like things are normal. Because, they aren’t. Glad you’re being an active citizen and trying to help move things forward as well. Hugs! XOXO!