Description
This easy smashed broccoli recipe delivers crispy edges and a creamy center, making vegetables exciting and satisfying. It is a family-friendly, quick, and healthy side dish perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large heads broccoli, cut into 1-2 inch florets (approx 900 g)
- 0.33 cup olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
- 1.5 tsp sumac, divided
- 0.25 cup tahini
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp cold water, plus more if needed
- 0.25 cup pomegranate arils
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prep Your Oven and Sheet Pan: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid cleanup.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they turn tender-crisp and a vibrant bright green. Drain thoroughly in a colander, shaking off excess water until dry.
- Get Smashing: Carefully transfer the blanched broccoli florets to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or mug, firmly smash each floret flat, creating rough, irregular discs.
- Season Generously: Drizzle 0.25 cup of the olive oil evenly over the smashed broccoli. Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried oregano, sea salt, black pepper, and 1 tsp of the sumac. Gently toss to ensure the broccoli is evenly coated with all the fragrant spices.
- Roast to Crispy Perfection: Roast the seasoned broccoli in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and lightly charred, and the broccoli is tender. If desired, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes for extra crispness, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Notes
For the crispiest smashed broccoli, ensure thorough blanching and drying. If your oven runs cool, add 5 more minutes or finish under the broiler, watching carefully. For a garlicky twist, use fresh minced garlic instead of powder.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 270 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: easy side dish, healthy vegetables, smashed broccoli, crispy broccoli, Mediterranean, weeknight meal, family-friendly, vegetarian