Broccoli is such a basic, simple vegetable, but here’s a recipe that elevates it to a crispy, crunchy marvel! The flavors deepen and I think that even folks who don’t like broccoli may enjoy this side.
The crisped parmesan crunches and combines with the balsamic vinegar and olive oil to make this a standout recipe. It does have a few steps, but they’re all easy, so there’s nothing keeping you from making this recipe on a busy weeknight!
Low-Calorie Roasted Smashed Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh broccoli (cut into florets – see Notes for frozen broccoli)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- black pepper (to taste)
- 2 TB olive oil
- 2 TB Balsamic vinegar
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Equipment
- rimmed half-sheet baking pan
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 450℉.
- Then you need to steam the broccoli, and the easiest way is to do it is in the microwave. Put the florets in a large bowl and add 1/4 cup water. Cover with plastic wrap or a plate and microwave for 4 1/2 minutes until just tender and not mushy. (For reference, I use a 1200 watt microwave. Your wattage is listed inside the door – adjust your cooking time accordingly.)
- Meanwhile, line a rimmed half-sheet baking pan with parchment paper.
- Spread the steamed broccoli on the baking sheet, and press each floret flat with the bottom of a water glass.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic powder, olive oil, balsamic, salt, pepper, and parmesan. Brush this mixture over the broccoli with a pastry brush.
- Put in the oven and cook for 15 minutes until browned and crispy around the edges. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve.
Notes
Broccoli: You could also make this with frozen broccoli. Just be sure not to steam it so much that it gets mushy. Steam it until it is just barely thawed.
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
Calories: 138Carbohydrates: 9.3gProtein: 5.9gFat: 9.4gSaturated Fat: 2.2gCholesterol: 5.9mgSodium: 141.3mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3.2g
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I has this the other night and it was fantastic. I recommend you give it a try and let me know how it goes!
