Description
This Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy side dish that combines tender yet crispy roasted broccoli with rich, nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare, full of nutrients, and loved by all ages. This versatile dish pairs well with seafood, chicken, pasta, and more.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Broccoli crowns – 2 large (firm, bright green)
- Olive oil – 3 tablespoons (extra virgin for best flavor)
- Fresh Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup grated
- Garlic cloves – 2 cloves minced
- Sea salt – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground
- Lemon juice (optional) – 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli crowns thoroughly and pat dry. Cut into medium-sized florets ensuring even sizes for uniform cooking.
- Boil or Steam Until Tender: Place florets in boiling salted water or steam for 6-8 minutes until tender but still crisp; avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
- Smash the Broccoli Florets: Transfer cooked florets to a sturdy flat surface. Use the bottom of a glass, spatula, or similar tool to gently press down and flatten each floret to increase surface area for crisping.
- Season and Roast: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange smashed florets in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper evenly over the broccoli. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy on edges.
- Finish with Parmesan: Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan over hot broccoli. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a savory finish. Optionally, drizzle lemon juice right before serving for a fresh citrus brightness.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for best flavor and texture.
- Flattening the florets ensures maximum crispiness.
- Extra virgin olive oil enhances taste and browning.
- Watch the oven time carefully to avoid burning the Parmesan.
- Add lemon juice just before serving to keep its brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg