Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan Crust

Roasted broccoli with a Parmesan crust transforms a simple side dish into a gourmet experience. The earthy, slightly bitter taste of the broccoli pairs wonderfully with the nutty, salty crunch of the Parmesan crust. When roasted, the broccoli florets become tender yet crisp, creating a delightful contrast in textures. The Parmesan adds a golden crust that is visually appealing and deliciously aromatic, enhancing the overall dish with a rich depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• Serves 4

Grocery Items Needed

• Broccoli – 2 large heads, cut into florets
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, freshly grated
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
• Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – 1/4 teaspoon

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the broccoli: Wash the broccoli florets and dry them thoroughly. This will help them roast better.
3. Mix the seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Coat the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss them with the seasoning mix to ensure they are well coated.
5. Arrange on the baking sheet: Spread the coated broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan: Evenly distribute the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli.
7. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the cheese has formed a golden crust.
8. Serve immediately: For best results, serve the broccoli hot from the oven.

Expert Tips

• For an extra crisp Parmesan crust, consider adding a light sprinkle of breadcrumbs with the cheese.
• Ensure the broccoli florets are dried thoroughly after washing to avoid steaming them in the oven instead of roasting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this roasted broccoli with a Parmesan crust as a sophisticated side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. It also pairs beautifully with a creamy pasta dish or as part of a vegetarian feast. Consider squeezing a wedge of fresh lemon over the top right before serving to enhance the flavors with a touch of acidity.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Allergens: Parmesan cheese

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this roasted broccoli with a Parmesan crust. Feel inspired to share this recipe with friends and family, and don't hesitate to add your personal twist to make it uniquely yours. Explore different cheeses or add a sprinkle of nuts for an added crunch. Happy cooking!