Broccoli, with its vibrant green color and numerous health benefits, is a beloved vegetable that often finds its way onto our plates. If you’re looking to elevate the flavors of this nutritious veggie, roasted broccoli with Parmesan is the perfect choice. This simple yet mouthwatering recipe combines the earthiness of roasted broccoli with the richness of Parmesan cheese.
1. Roasted Broccoli With Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash the broccoli florets and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss them gently to ensure even coating with the garlic and olive oil mixture.
Arrange the broccoli florets in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the broccoli for 20-25 minutes, or until the florets are tender and slightly browned.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the roasted broccoli.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes golden and bubbly.
Remove the Parmesan Roasted Broccoli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Serve the roasted broccoli immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges for a zesty touch.
2. Tips to Make Roasted Broccoli With Parmesan Perfect
Look for Bright Green Florets: Fresh broccoli should have vibrant green florets without yellowing or browning.
Properly Prepare the Broccoli: Chop the broccoli into uniform florets, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Consistent sizes ensure even cooking. Also, don’t forget to pat the broccoli dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of roasting, preventing crispiness.
Rinse and Dry Thoroughly: After washing, pat the broccoli dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of roasting, preventing crispiness.
Using High-Heat Oils: Opt for oils with high smoke points, such as olive oil, avocado oil, or grapeseed oil. This helps achieve a nice roast without burning.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving crispy edges and caramelization.
Arrange Broccoli in a Single Layer: Spread the broccoli evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer with space between florets. Overcrowding traps steam, resulting in soggy broccoli. If you have a large quantity, use more than one baking sheet to maintain space for air circulation.
Add Parmesan at the Right Time: Sprinkle grated or shaved parmesan cheese over the broccoli in the last 5 minutes of roasting. This allows the cheese to melt slightly without burning.
3. What To Eat With Roasted Broccoli?
Baked or Roasted Chicken
Chicken is mild in flavor and pairs beautifully with the caramelized, slightly nutty taste of roasted broccoli. The tender meat balances the crispy texture of the broccoli, creating a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
Salmon or Other Fish
Roasted broccoli’s earthy flavors complement the rich, buttery texture of fish like salmon, cod, or halibut. Adding lemon or a light glaze to both dishes ties them together and enhances their natural flavors.
Steak
The hearty, savory taste of steak contrasts nicely with roasted broccoli’s slight bitterness and crispy edges. Together, they create a satisfying, high-protein meal with a good balance of flavors and textures.
Creamy Pasta (e.g., Alfredo, Carbonara)
The roasted broccoli cuts through the richness of creamy pasta sauces, adding a fresh, savory element to balance the dish. The crisp-tender texture of the broccoli also provides a pleasant contrast to the soft pasta.
Rice or Grain Bowls
Adding roasted broccoli to rice or quinoa bowls adds flavor, texture, and nutrients. Its slight crunch complements soft grains, while its roasted flavor enhances the bowl’s overall depth. Pair with proteins or dressings for a complete meal.
Egg-Based Dishes (e.g., Frittatas, Omelets, Scrambled Eggs)
The creamy and fluffy texture of eggs complements the crispy edges of roasted broccoli. Their mild flavors allow the broccoli’s roasted taste to shine, making this an excellent choice for brunch or a light dinner.
Roasting broccoli in the oven is a simple and fuss-free cooking method. It requires minimal preparation and allows you to multitask while the oven does the work. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, Parmesan Roasted Broccoli is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
