Crispy Baked Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that belongs to the same family as kale, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. It is renowned for its remarkable health benefits, making it a staple in many diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of broccoli:

Discover the joy of healthy eating with Crispy Baked Broccoli Delight, a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this vibrant green vegetable brings a delightful crunch to your table. Whether you're serving it alongside your favorite protein, tossing it in a salad, or enjoying it as a snack, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while promoting your well-being. Perfect for any meal, it’s time to embrace the versatility and health benefits of broccoli in a way that’s anything but boring!

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Ingredients

1 large head of fresh broccoli, cut into florets

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnishing (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and thoroughly dry them with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. The drier they are, the crispier they will become!

Season the Florets: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the broccoli florets to the bowl, and toss them until well-coated in the oil and seasonings.

Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper (this will aid in easy cleanup). Make sure the florets are spaced out and not overcrowded, as this allows them to crisp up nicely.

Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the broccoli is tender. Halfway through the cooking time, give the broccoli a good shake on the sheet to ensure even browning.

Add Finishing Touches: If you’re adding Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the broccoli during the last 5 minutes of baking, then return to the oven. This will help it melt and create a deliciously cheesy crust.

Flavor Boost: Once out of the oven, drizzle the lemon juice over the broccoli and sprinkle with lemon zest for a fresh burst of flavor. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the crispy baked broccoli to a serving dish and serve warm either as a side dish, a healthy snack, or even over a salad!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings