Description
Crispy, golden smashed broccoli florets roasted with Parmesan, garlic, and lemon zest for an easy gluten-free side dish with tender centers and crunchy edges.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 pounds broccoli florets, cut into medium florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, garlic powder, lemon zest, kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
- Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until bright green and just fork-tender. Drain well, then spread on a clean towel or paper towels and pat very dry.
- Arrange the broccoli on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to gently smash each floret into a flattened shape.
- Brush or drizzle the seasoning mixture over the broccoli, then sprinkle the Parmesan evenly over the tops.
- Roast for 18 to 20 minutes, until the broccoli edges are crisp and golden and the Parmesan has melted into a browned crust.
- Let rest for 2 minutes, then serve hot. Add a tiny pinch of extra lemon zest before serving if desired.
Notes
- Drying the broccoli well is the key to crisp edges.
- Finely grated Parmesan browns more evenly than coarse shreds.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
- Serve with lemony yogurt dip, ranch, or marinara if you want to turn it into an appetizer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: smashed broccoli, parmesan broccoli, crispy broccoli, roasted broccoli side dish, gluten free vegetable side