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Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Parmesan

This dish features fresh broccoli roasted until crispy and caramelized, enhanced with fragrant garlic and finished with melty Parmesan cheese. The roasting process creates a tender yet crispy texture with golden edges, making it a crave-worthy side dish that highlights simple, wholesome ingredients.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups broccoli florets firm, dark green, tight buds
  • 3-4 cloves garlic smash and mince
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil good quality extra-virgin
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese aged, grated
  • to taste salt sea salt preferred
  • to taste black pepper freshly cracked
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional for brightness

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Grater
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
  2. Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli, then cut into bite-sized florets, keeping the stems if you like, sliced thin for even roasting.
  3. In a small bowl, smash the garlic cloves with the side of your knife until fragrant and slightly golden, then mince finely or leave as crushed.
  4. In a large bowl, toss the broccoli with olive oil, ensuring each piece is well coated, then spread them out evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Sprinkle generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
  6. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and golden, and the broccoli is tender with caramelized spots.
  7. While the broccoli roasts, grate about 1/4 cup of aged Parmesan cheese and prepare lemon zest if using.
  8. Once roasted, remove the broccoli from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, if using, then toss gently to melt the cheese into the crispy edges.
  9. Let sit for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Notes

For extra crispness, ensure broccoli is spread out in a single layer and flip halfway through roasting. Add garlic later if you prefer to prevent burning. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the edges are crisp and cheese is melty.