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Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan

Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan
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A simple and delicious recipe for Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan that delivers crispy edges, tender centers, and a golden cheesy crust. Perfect as a healthy, flavorful side dish for any meal, this recipe is quick to prepare and uses basic pantry staples to transform broccoli into a crave-worthy treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large head of fresh broccoli (with tight florets and thick stems)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Prep and Cook the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli and cut the florets into large portions, including some sturdy stems. Boil or steam them until tender but still firm, about 5-7 minutes, to ensure they hold their shape during smashing and roasting.
  2. Smash the Broccoli: Lay the cooked florets flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use the bottom of a glass or small pan to gently press down and flatten the broccoli, keeping each piece connected to create more surface area for crispiness.
  3. Season and Add Cheese: Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed broccoli, then sprinkle minced garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes evenly over the top, ensuring the Parmesan covers the surface for a golden crust.
  4. Roast Until Crispy: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the broccoli for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are browned and crispy and the Parmesan has turned golden.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool briefly. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli with firm heads for the best texture and shape retention during cooking.
  • Do not overcook the broccoli before smashing; it should be just tender to avoid mushiness.
  • Be generous with the olive oil and Parmesan cheese to get a crispy, flavorful crust.
  • Space out broccoli pieces on the baking sheet to ensure even crispiness.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed broccoli, parmesan broccoli, crispy broccoli side dish, healthy broccoli recipe, cheesy broccoli, gluten free side, easy vegetable recipe

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/smashed-broccoli-with-parmesan/