Description
Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan and Lemon delivers crisp, caramelized florets kissed with zesty citrus and salty cheese. Elevated with minimal ingredients, this simple side dish promises restaurant-quality flavor that elevates any meal for hungry diners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 broccoli heads, cut into medium florets
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Oil and Liquid:
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice
Seasonings:
- 4 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic salt (with parsley flakes)
- ¾ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil or lightly greasing the surface to prevent sticking.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine olive oil and minced garlic. Heat for 30 seconds to infuse the oil with garlic flavor, then strain out the garlic pieces, reserving the aromatic oil.
- Whisk the infused olive oil with fresh lemon juice, adding garlic salt and ground black pepper to create a vibrant seasoning mixture.
- Carefully toss the broccoli florets in the prepared seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the fragrant oil and spices.
- Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, allowing enough space between pieces for even roasting and crisp edges.
- Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli, which will create a golden, crispy crust during baking.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, gently stirring the broccoli halfway through cooking to promote uniform browning and caramelization.
- Remove from the oven when the broccoli edges are crisp and golden, and the Parmesan cheese is melted and slightly crispy. Serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Maximize flavor by ensuring broccoli florets are evenly coated with the garlic-infused olive oil mixture before roasting.
- Microwaving garlic in oil helps release its aromatic compounds, creating a more intense and fragrant seasoning.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting texture and rich, nutty flavor profile.
- Toss broccoli halfway through baking to ensure even browning and prevent burning on one side.
- For extra zest, add a final squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the dish.
- Select firm, dark green broccoli heads with tight, compact florets for the most delicious roasted result.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 340 cal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg