Description
A flavorful Thanksgiving broccoli side dish featuring roasted broccoli florets seasoned with garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes, topped with crispy seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This easy and delicious recipe brings a perfect balance of crisp-tender broccoli and crunchy toppings, ideal for holiday gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head broccoli (or 4 cups florets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping Ingredients
- 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the center to ensure even roasting.
- Prepare Broccoli: Trim the broccoli into similar-sized florets for uniform cooking and dry them thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- Season Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if desired, coating evenly.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the seasoned broccoli on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer to promote crisp edges.
- Roast Broccoli: Roast the broccoli for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the edges are crisp and golden brown.
- Add Toppings: Immediately after removing the broccoli from the oven, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan evenly over the broccoli.
- Optional Crisping: Return the broccoli to the oven for an additional 2 to 3 minutes if you desire extra crispiness on the toppings.
- Serve: Transfer the broccoli to a serving platter and add a fresh squeeze of lemon on top for extra brightness. Serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure broccoli is thoroughly dried before roasting to achieve crisp edges.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs or add your own seasonings if unavailable.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired spiciness.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with a vegetarian alternative if needed.
- This dish pairs well with roasted turkey or grilled meats for Thanksgiving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven to retain crispness.
