Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Parmesan
Crisp-tender broccoli florets roasted to perfection with fragrant garlic and a generous sprinkle of salty Parmesan cheese. An incredibly easy and delicious side dish that's ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)
- a.Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 2
Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli florets
- a.In a large bowl, combine the dry broccoli, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss until every floret is evenly coated.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the florets have space between them to promote roasting, not steaming. Use two sheets if necessary.
- 4
Roast for 10 minutes
- a.Remove the pan from the oven and use a spatula to flip the florets for even cooking.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 8-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the edges are nicely browned and slightly charred.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Remove from the oven and immediately transfer the hot broccoli to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently to combine. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese.
- 7
Step 7
- a.If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the broccoli just before serving to brighten the flavors. Serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Dry the broccoli completely after washing. Any moisture will create steam and prevent the broccoli from getting crispy.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Give the florets space to roast, not steam. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- 3High heat is essential for getting those delicious charred edges. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F (220°C).
- 4Add the Parmesan cheese at the end. If you add it at the beginning, it can burn before the broccoli is cooked through.
- 5Cut florets into similar sizes for even cooking.
- 6For a different flavor profile, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or smoked paprika along with the other spices.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika and increase red pepper flakes to 1/2 tsp for more heat and smoky flavor.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Toss with 1/4 cup of toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts after roasting for added texture.
Cheesy DeluxeCheesy Deluxe
Use a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheese. Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella in the last 2 minutes of baking for a melted finish.
Asian InspiredAsian-Inspired
Omit Parmesan and red pepper flakes. After roasting, toss with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins, including Vitamin C for immune support and Vitamin K for bone health, as well as fiber and potassium.
Supports Gut Health
The high fiber content in broccoli promotes healthy digestion, aids in regular bowel movements, and feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
Antioxidant Power
Broccoli contains powerful antioxidants like sulforaphane, which may help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Heart-Healthy
The combination of fiber and potassium in broccoli, along with the use of heart-healthy olive oil, can contribute to better cardiovascular health by helping to manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy side dish. Broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Roasting is a healthy cooking method that requires minimal oil. Using Parmesan adds flavor without excessive calories or fat.