Lemon Parmesan Smashed Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 Large Crown Broccoli
washed
- 1/3 Cup Parmesan
freshly grated
- 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
- 1 Lemon
juiced
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
Directions
- 1
To make this smashed broccoli, start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, on the stove.
- 2
Once the water is boiling, add in the broccoli crown and allow it to boil for approximately 4-5 minutes. Do not allow the broccoli to cook for longer than that, as it will be mushy otherwise.
- 3
After the broccoli has been cooked, remove it from the water and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Then, set it aside.
- 4
Next, preheat the oven to 400 F.
- 5
While the oven is preheating, prepare the dressing for the broccoli by whisking the dressing ingredients together in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed, then set it aside.
- 6
Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the broccoli crown on top.
- 7
Cut or break the broccoli crown apart, into florets, and line the florets up evenly across the baking sheet.
- 8
Then, use the bottom of a drinking glass to smash the broccoli down, until it's as flat as possible. Repeat with each floret.
- 9
Once the florets are smashed, brush the dressing across evenly across them.
- 10
Then, add a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top of each floret.
- 11
Finally, bake the broccoli, in the oven, for 20-22 minutes until the edges of the broccoli are crispy and the cheese has fully melted. Once they're done, serve them and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container, in the fridge, for up to one week.
Lemon Parmesan Smashed Broccoli
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About this Recipe
Tired of dull, steamed vegetables? If you're searching for a simple recipe that transforms ordinary broccoli into an extraordinary side dish, look no further. This Lemon Parmesan Smashed Broccoli is your new go-to for making vegetables the star of any meal, or even a delightful snack all on their own.
What makes this recipe truly special is the ingenious 'smashed' technique. This method creates abundant surface area, allowing every crevice of the broccoli to soak up the vibrant lemon, savory Parmesan, and aromatic garlic powder. The result is a dish with wonderfully browned, slightly crispy edges that are bursting with flavor, far beyond what simple roasting can achieve.
Expect a symphony of tastes and textures. You'll savor the bright, tangy zest of fresh lemon cutting through the rich, umami notes of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A hint of garlic and a perfect balance of salt and pepper elevate the natural sweetness of the broccoli, creating a side that's both comforting and exciting. This naturally vegetarian-friendly dish promises a satisfying bite that's tender on the inside with those irresistible crispy bits.
This versatile dish welcomes a few simple customizations. For a dairy-free option, you could omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. While the recipe calls for garlic powder, a pinch of red pepper flakes would add a subtle heat. You can also experiment with other fresh herbs like chopped parsley or oregano for an added layer of flavor.
Serve this incredible Lemon Parmesan Smashed Broccoli alongside your favorite grilled chicken, baked fish, or even as a flavorful component in a hearty grain bowl. It's also remarkably satisfying eaten straight from the sheet pan!