GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI Recipe
If you’re craving a side dish that brings bold flavor and irresistible texture to the table, you absolutely have to try this GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI. It combines tender roasted broccoli with the nutty, savory kick of Parmesan and the warm, zesty punch of garlic—all roasted to crispy perfection. This dish is a simple yet show-stopping way to elevate your weekday dinners or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s healthy, delicious, and downright addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI recipe lies in its simplicity. The few ingredients used are key players, each adding a layer of flavor, aroma, or texture that makes every bite deliciously memorable.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh and firm florets ensure a perfect tender-crisp bite after roasting.
- Olive oil: Provides richness and helps the garlic infuse the broccoli as it roasts.
- Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic delivers aromatic warmth and bold savory notes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and crisps beautifully in the oven, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
- Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the broccoli and balances all flavors.
- Black pepper: Offers a subtle heat and complements the garlic perfectly.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle for a touch of spicy excitement.
- Lemon wedges (optional): Brighten every bite with a squeeze of fresh, tangy citrus just before serving.
How to Make GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential because it caramelizes the broccoli edges, giving you that sought-after crispy yet tender texture.
Step 2: Toss the Broccoli
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss everything together until every floret is luxuriously coated. This step ensures even roasting and lets the garlic and spices infuse the broccoli.
Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze. Spread the broccoli out in a single layer; crowding the pan will steam the broccoli instead of roasting it, so make sure there’s some breathing room.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Pop the pan in the oven and roast for about 15 minutes. Halfway through, give the broccoli a gentle stir to ensure even cooking. You want the florets tender with crispy, darkened edges that bring a satisfying crunch.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan
Remove the broccoli from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese all over. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the cheese melts, browns slightly, and forms an irresistible coating that perfectly complements the garlic-roasted flavor.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Once the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbling, take the broccoli out and get ready to enjoy. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges to add a lively, citrusy brightness if desired.
How to Serve GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI
Garnishes
To make your GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI even more inviting, try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch. A dusting of fresh parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate its flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This roasted broccoli effortlessly partners with grilled chicken, pan-seared fish, or even a hearty pasta. It also shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, bringing a fresh, vibrant note to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, serve this dish on a platter with various dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy marinara. You can also toss it into a warm grain bowl with quinoa, chickpeas, and a lemon tahini dressing for a wholesome, veggie-packed meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI keeps very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it separately from lemon wedges to keep the flavor fresh until serving.
Freezing
While roasting gives broccoli its best texture fresh, you can freeze roasted broccoli if needed. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 2 months for best quality. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftover GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI back to life, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain its crispiness better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Fresh broccoli works best for roasting since it crisps up nicely, but if you’re short on time, frozen broccoli can be used. Just be sure to thoroughly thaw and pat it dry first to avoid sogginess.
Is there a vegan alternative to Parmesan cheese?
Absolutely! Nutritional yeast is a fantastic vegan substitute that offers a cheesy, nutty flavor without dairy. You can sprinkle it on just the same as Parmesan before the final roasting.
How can I make this less spicy?
If you’re sensitive to heat, simply omit the red pepper flakes. The dish will still be bursting with flavor thanks to the garlic and Parmesan.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or even asparagus can be roasted alongside the broccoli. Just keep in mind that different veggies might require slight adjustments in roasting time.
What’s the best way to clean broccoli before roasting?
Rinse the broccoli under cool running water and dry thoroughly. Excess moisture can cause steaming instead of roasting, so use a salad spinner or pat dry with a kitchen towel.
Final Thoughts
Once you make this GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to side dishes. The flavors are bold, comforting, and just downright satisfying. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this easy recipe guarantees a plate full of roasted goodness that everyone will love. Dive in and enjoy every garlicky, cheesy bite!
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GARLIC PARMESAN ROASTED BROCCOLI Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli is a simple yet flavorful side dish featuring tender broccoli florets roasted to perfection with garlic, olive oil, and a savory Parmesan cheese topping. This easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender centers, enhanced by a hint of spice and a fresh squeeze of lemon for optional brightness.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb broccoli florets
Seasoning & Flavoring
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Optional)
Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Can be substituted with nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
Serving
- lemon wedges (For serving, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for roasting the broccoli evenly and quickly.
- Prepare the broccoli: In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss thoroughly so all the florets are well coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup if desired. Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer to allow for even roasting and crisping.
- Roast the broccoli: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 15 minutes. Stir the broccoli halfway through cooking to promote even browning and tender texture.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot broccoli, then return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt and develop a slightly browned, crispy topping.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the broccoli from the oven. Serve hot with optional lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, tangy finish.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit entirely for a milder dish.
- Using parchment paper prevents sticking and eases cleanup but is optional.
- Fresh lemon wedges add a bright, acidic contrast if served.
- Ensure broccoli florets are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: garlic roasted broccoli, parmesan broccoli, roasted vegetable side, easy broccoli recipe, healthy side dish
