Smashed Broccoli

Smashed Broccoli is a delightful and fun way to enjoy this healthy vegetable. With a crispy Parmesan topping and a burst of fresh lemon flavor, this dish transforms simple broccoli into a tasty side that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a special occasion, Smashed Broccoli is sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add vegetables to your meal, Smashed Broccoli is perfect. It’s simple to prepare, takes only a few ingredients, and cooks quickly in the oven. Plus, the combination of Parmesan cheese and lemon makes it rich in flavor while still being nutritious. It’s a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy their greens!

How to Make Smashed Broccoli

Making Smashed Broccoli is straightforward and quick. Follow these easy steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Ingredients:

1 Broccoli (approx. 400g)
Salt
60 g Parmesan cheese
3 tbsp Olive oil
1/2 Organic lemon
1 pinch Pepper
1 pinch Chili flakes (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius (top and bottom heat). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Divide the broccoli into florets, wash them thoroughly, and let them drain. Once the water is boiling, salt it and cook the broccoli florets for about 3-5 minutes until they are al dente. Drain and let them cool briefly.
While the broccoli cools, finely grate the Parmesan cheese. In a bowl, mix the grated cheese with the olive oil. Grate the lemon zest and squeeze out the juice. Add the lemon juice and zest to the bowl, along with some salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Mix everything together.
Place the cooled broccoli florets spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press them down with a glass or bowl to flatten them. Brush the broccoli with the olive oil-Parmesan mixture. Bake in the hot oven for about 15-20 minutes until the Parmesan topping is golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and serve as a side dish or with a herb dip. Enjoy!

How to Serve Smashed Broccoli

Smashed Broccoli can be served hot as a side dish with any main meal. It pairs well with grilled meats, chicken, or even as part of a vegetarian platter. You can also enjoy it with a dip, such as hummus or a yogurt-based sauce for added flavor.

How to Store Smashed Broccoli

If you have leftovers, store Smashed Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it, you can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

Tips to Make Smashed Broccoli

Make sure to not overcook the broccoli when boiling; it should be just tender.
You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for a twist on the flavor.
For a little extra kick, try adding more chili flakes based on your taste preference.

Variations

You can add more vegetables, like sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, in the same baking tray to create a colorful rainbow of veggies. You can also use different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to change the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make Smashed Broccoli ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the broccoli and the cheese mixture ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble and cook.

2. Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
While this recipe contains cheese, you can substitute it with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to make it vegan-friendly.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before smashing and baking to avoid excess moisture.

Now you have a delightful and easy recipe for Smashed Broccoli that you can enjoy anytime! Happy cooking!