If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, the Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful recipe transforms ordinary broccoli into crispy, cheesy, garlicky bites that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With a perfect balance of fresh lemon zest, pungent Parmigiano Reggiano, and a touch of spice, this dish is as vibrant in taste as it is comforting. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a light main, the Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe is sure to become your new favorite way to enjoy green veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe plays a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of texture and flavor. From the vibrant punch of lemon zest to the nutty Parmigiano, these simple components come together effortlessly to make a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious.
- Broccoli (1 head): Fresh and firm, this is the star of the recipe providing crispness and a slightly sweet earthiness.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds a warm, savory depth that infuses the olive oil for extra flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon + to taste): Essential for bringing out the natural flavors and balancing the lemon and cheese.
- Mustard powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a gentle sharpness and subtle heat that elevates the overall taste.
- Lemon zest (from 1 organic lemon): Injects a bright, tangy aroma that cuts through the richness.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons): Used both to roast the broccoli and as a flavor base in the garlic oil mixture.
- Grated Parmigiano Reggiano (1 heaping cup): The cheese melts into golden, salty perfection that crowns the dish beautifully.
- Red Tabasco or Sriracha: Optional for those who want to add a kick of heat and complexity.
- Pesto: Another optional topping that introduces fresh herbaceous notes.
- Lemon wedges or Aged balsamic vinegar: Perfect for finishing the dish with a splash of acidity or sweetness.
How to Make Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preparation
Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly, making sure it’s crisp and fresh. Then, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and get a baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic-Infused Oil
Whisk together the minced garlic, salt, mustard powder, lemon zest, and extra-virgin olive oil in a small bowl. This oil will bring incredible flavor to each bite of broccoli, so take your time to mix it well.
Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then submerge the broccoli for about 4 to 5 minutes. Blanching softens the stalks just enough to be smashed later without losing the fresh green crunch. Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Brush your baking sheet generously with the garlic-infused oil. Break the broccoli head into individual florets and slice the thicker stem into pieces. Spread them evenly on the sheet to ensure they bake perfectly.
Step 5: Smash the Broccoli
Using the palm of your hand or a flat-bottomed glass, gently press down on each floret just until it splits and flattens slightly. This helps expose more surface area, which will get wonderfully crispy in the oven.
Step 6: Season and Bake
Brush the smashed florets with the remaining garlic oil, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then sprinkle liberally with the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, allow the broccoli to cool for about five minutes. This pause lets the cheese set slightly, making each piece easier to handle and enjoy. Now your Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like a drizzle of pesto, a squeeze of fresh lemon, or a scatter of red pepper flakes can brighten and personalize this dish. These toppings not only complement the rich Parmesan but also provide layers of flavor and texture that keep things exciting.
Side Dishes
Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe makes an incredible side for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a creamy pasta. It’s also a fantastic way to up your vegetable intake with something far from boring.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the broccoli on a rustic wooden board alongside a selection of dipping sauces like garlic aioli or balsamic glaze. Or pile it on top of warm crusty bread for an irresistible open-faced snack. The possibilities are truly endless and always delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover smashed broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep in mind the cheese crust may soften, but reheating will revive some of that crispiness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe because the texture of broccoli changes with freezing and thawing. To enjoy the best quality, it’s better to consume freshly made servings.
Reheating
When reheating, place the broccoli on a baking sheet and warm it in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. This helps regain the crispy texture and refreshes the flavors without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmigiano Reggiano?
Absolutely! While Parmigiano Reggiano offers a distinct nutty and salty richness, you can swap it for Pecorino Romano or a sharp aged cheddar for a different but equally tasty twist.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep since it keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely. Just be sure to add any fresh garnishes, like lemon juice or pesto, right before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! Adding a few dashes of Red Tabasco or Sriracha before baking or serving can give the dish a lovely kick that contrasts beautifully with the cheese and lemon.
How do I know when the broccoli is perfectly smashed?
You want to press just enough to split the florets open without completely mashing them into a pulp. The goal is to increase surface area so it crisps beautifully in the oven but still holds its shape.
What if I don’t have mustard powder?
No worries! You can omit it or substitute with a tiny pinch of dry mustard or even a little Dijon mustard mixed into the garlic oil for a similar pungent note.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about turning a humble vegetable like broccoli into such an irresistible treat. The Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe not only delivers on flavor but also brings a distinct sense of comfort and sophistication to your table. I can’t wait for you to experience it and share it with those you love!
Print
Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Smashed Broccoli with Parmesan recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional steamed broccoli by incorporating a garlic-infused olive oil and a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Blanched and gently smashed, the broccoli is baked to achieve a tender yet slightly crispy texture, enhanced with vibrant lemon zest and optional spicy or tangy toppings like red Tabasco, Sriracha, pesto, or aged balsamic vinegar. Perfect as a nutritious side dish with a sophisticated flavor profile.
Ingredients
Broccoli
- 1 head broccoli, washed
Garlic-Infused Oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
- Zest of one organic lemon
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1 heaping cup of grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Red Tabasco or Sriracha
- Pesto
- Lemon wedges or Aged balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin with preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare a baking sheet by brushing it lightly with some of the garlic-infused olive oil later created.
- Prepare Garlic-Infused Oil: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, salt, mustard powder, lemon zest, and extra-virgin olive oil thoroughly to infuse the flavors which will be used to brush the broccoli and baking sheet.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Submerge the whole head of broccoli in the boiling water for 4-5 minutes until it is tender but still crisp. Drain the broccoli well to remove excess water.
- Prepare for Baking: On the prepared baking sheet, break the broccoli into individual florets and slice the stem into manageable pieces. Arrange them spaced out on the sheet.
- Smash the Broccoli: Using the palm of your hand or the bottom of a sturdy glass, gently press down on each floret to smash it lightly, increasing the surface area for roasting and flavor absorption.
- Season and Bake: Brush all the broccoli pieces generously with the garlic-infused olive oil. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle the grated Parmigiano Reggiano evenly over the top. Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges of the broccoli become crisp.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the smashed broccoli to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. Offer with optional toppings such as red Tabasco or Sriracha for heat, pesto for herbaceous depth, or lemon wedges and aged balsamic vinegar for acidity and sweetness.
Notes
- Blanching helps retain the vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture of the broccoli before smashing and baking.
- Smashing the broccoli increases the surface area, enhancing crisping and flavor absorption during baking.
- Parmigiano Reggiano adds a savory, nutty depth that crisps beautifully in the oven.
- Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly after blanching to avoid soggy results.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, or can be enjoyed as a flavorful vegetarian side.
- Adjust seasoning and optional toppings to suit your taste preferences.
