– 1 ½ pounds of fresh broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). You’ll want it nice and hot to get those edges perfectly crispy.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add your broccoli florets. Cook them just for a couple of minutes – they should start to brighten in color but still be firm.
3. Drain the broccoli well. We’re aiming for less moisture so they can get that smashing crispiness.
4. Toss the drained broccoli with the olive oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkling of salt and pepper in a large bowl. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
5. Now, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up and scatter your broccoli on it. Here’s the fun part: take a glass or a cup and gently press down on each floret to smash it a bit – not completely flat, just enough to create some nooks and crannies.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to start singing with a golden color.
7. Carefully remove the pan from the oven, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the broccoli, and slide it back in for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Serve immediately, while the melodies of crunch and cheesy goodness are at their peak!
Variations & Tips
– For families with little ones, you can skip the red pepper flakes and focus on the garlic and cheese. You can even add a bit of breadcrumbs for extra texture.
– Got a vegetarian in the clan? Make sure the Parmesan you use is vegetarian-friendly since traditional Parmesan is made using animal rennet.
– Leftovers (if you have any!) are great chopped up and tossed with pasta or sprinkled over a baked potato. Keep the creativity rolling and watch those veggies disappear.
With this recipe, you’re not just serving up a side dish, you’re adding excitement to your family’s meal. It’s those little twists on the classics that make dinner time something everyone looks forward to. Enjoy your Oven Parmesan Smashed Broccoli, everyone!
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