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Crispy Oven-Roasted Smashed Broccoli with Garlic Parmesan

Close-up of perfectly charred and crispy smashed broccoli florets served on a white plate near a window.

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Make this easy, flavorful smashed broccoli side dish. Roasting after smashing creates crispy edges and a tender center, coated in garlic butter and Parmesan cheese. It is a quick, healthy dinner idea.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large heads of broccoli, cut into medium florets
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2 minutes. Immediately drain the broccoli and plunge it into an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain well and pat the florets very dry with paper towels.
  3. Place the dried broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or a sturdy spatula to gently smash each floret until it is flattened, exposing more surface area. Do not crush them completely into mush.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the smashed broccoli on the baking sheet. Toss gently to coat.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes.
  7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the broccoli.
  8. Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the cheese is golden brown.
  9. Serve this crispy broccoli side dish immediately.

Notes

  • Drying the broccoli thoroughly after blanching is key to achieving maximum crispness.
  • For a low carb vegetable recipe, skip the butter and use only olive oil.
  • If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, increase the minced garlic to 4 cloves.

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