Smashed Broccoli (Crispy, Cheesy, Full of Flavor)

5 from 1 vote

This Smashed Broccoli will be your new favorite way to eat broccoli. With a lemon, garlic, chili dressing and crispy parmesan - sooo delicious!

Course: Sides

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 154kcal

Prep Time5

Cook Time25

Total Time30

▢ 25oz / 700g large broccoli heads - approx 2
▢ 1.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
▢ 1-2 garlic cloves grated or minced
▢ 1 small lemon - zested and juiced
▢ 1.5oz / 40g finely grated parmesan cheese
▢ Good pinch of red pepper flakes - more/or less depending how spicy you like it
▢ Salt and black pepper to taste

Cut the broccoli into florets, approximately all similar in size. Also cut the stem in circles *no wastage
Boil broccoli in a large pot of water with a good pinch of salt, for 3-5 minutes until fork tender but not too soft or overcooked
While the broccoli is cooking, preheat oven to 400℉/200℃
In a small bowl, add the olive oil, garlic, lemon zest and lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt and black pepper, and mix to combine
Drain the broccoli through a colander and run under cold water, or place in an ice bath to stop it cooking further
Pat the broccoli florets dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, and place them on a baking tray or sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Ensure there is some space in between them
Using a glass, gently press down on each broccoli floret, one at a time to smash them down. Be gentle so they keep in tact
Brush the marinade on the tops of all the broccoli florets and stems so they're coated
Sprinkle all with freshly grated parmesan cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden and sizzling
Serve up your crispy Smashed Broccoli with your favorite dish and enjoy!!!

⭐️ Final Step! Would love if you left a rating and comment to let me know how it went. Your feedback helps inspire others and means alot ❤️

Keywords: crispy, parmesan crust, smashed potatoes