Crispy Baked Broccoli

In recent years, there has been a remarkable shift towards incorporating more vegetable side dishes into our meals. As health consciousness continues to rise among consumers, this trend reflects a broader commitment to wellness and nutrition. Vegetables are not only essential for a balanced diet, but they also offer a plethora of flavors and textures that can transform any meal. Among these green powerhouses, broccoli stands out as a particularly versatile option, boasting a remarkable ability to adapt to various cooking methods while delivering a delicious taste.

Transform your meals with this Crispy Baked Broccoli Delight, a flavorful and nutritious side dish that highlights the versatility of broccoli. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe turns fresh broccoli florets into a crispy, savory treat. Tossed with olive oil and spices, it provides essential vitamins and minerals while pleasing your taste buds. Enjoy it on its own, alongside your favorite proteins, or cold in salads for a delightful crunch.

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Ingredients

1 pound fresh broccoli florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that delicious crispy texture.

Prepare the Broccoli: Rinse broccoli florets under cold water. Dry them thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels - excess moisture can hinder crispiness.

Seasoning Mixture: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until homogenous.

Coat the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated. Ensure every piece is generously covered to maximize flavor.

Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup and promotes even cooking.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, flip the florets halfway through.

Add the Cheese: If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the broccoli during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow it to melt and create an even crunchier topping.

Finishing Touches: Once out of the oven, add lemon zest and lemon juice over the crispy broccoli. Toss lightly to combine and add a refreshing zest. If you enjoy heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for an added kick.

Serve: Serve the crispy baked broccoli immediately while it’s hot for the best texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4