Perfectly Roasted Broccoli

Perfectly Roasted Broccoli 🥦✨

Ingredients

(Serves 2–4 as a side dish)

• 1 large head of broccoli , cut into florets (about 4–5 cups )
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt , to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic for extra flavor )
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese , divided
• Optional : Red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or black pepper for added flair

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prep the Broccoli

1. In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese . Toss again to ensure the broccoli is well-seasoned.

Step 3: Roast the Broccoli

1. Spread the broccoli florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to allow for even roasting and crispiness.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for 12 minutes , or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Add Extra Cheese

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the hot broccoli. The residual heat will help the cheese melt slightly and stick to the florets.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the roasted broccoli to a serving dish.
2. Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a dash of freshly ground black pepper for brightness and heat.

Tips for Success

1. Dry the Broccoli : Pat the broccoli dry with a paper towel before tossing with olive oil. This helps achieve crispier results.
2. Use Fresh Garlic : For an extra punch of flavor, toss minced fresh garlic with the broccoli during the last 2–3 minutes of roasting to avoid burning.
3. Add Acid : A splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice after roasting adds brightness and balances the richness of the Parmesan.
4. Experiment with Seasonings : Try smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
5. Make It Creamy : Drizzle with a light coating of ranch dressing, Caesar dressing, or tahini sauce before serving for a creamy twist.

Variations

1. Spicy Broccoli : Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha before serving.
2. Nutty Crunch : Sprinkle toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or sesame seeds on top before serving.
3. Cheesy Upgrade : Use a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a sharper, more complex flavor.
4. Lemon-Garlic Broccoli : Zest a lemon over the broccoli before roasting and toss with fresh garlic after cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy & Flavorful : Broccoli is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and this method makes it anything but boring.
• Crispy & Cheesy : The Parmesan forms a savory crust that complements the tender-crisp broccoli perfectly.
• Versatile : Serve it as a side dish, toss it into salads, or use it as a topping for grain bowls or pasta.

This method truly highlights how simple ingredients can transform broccoli into something extraordinary. Whether you’re making it as a quick weeknight side or serving it at a dinner party, it’s sure to be a hit every time.