Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic is a delightful side dish, brimming with the deep, caramelized flavors that roasting brings out. Bursting with nutrients and fiber, broccoli is a superfood that pairs well with the bold flavor of garlic. The olive oil helps the broccoli to crisp up in the oven, while the smashed garlic infuses it with its distinctive pungent and spicy character. This easy yet sophisticated dish is versatile enough to accompany a wide range of main courses.
All the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in supermarkets or even in your pantry. Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable, is usually available year-round, but is at its peak from October through April. Look for heads with tight, green florets and firm stalks. The smashing technique used for the garlic cloves in this recipe releases more flavor than simply chopping or mincing.
Ingredients for Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
Broccoli florets: These are the top part of the broccoli - the green, tree-like heads. They roast up nicely and have a wonderful hearty texture and flavor.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic offers a pungency that permeates the entire dish. By smashing the cloves, you allow the natural juices to be released, adding more flavor to the broccoli.
Extra virgin olive oil: This is used to coat the broccoli before roasting, helping to give it a nice, crispy texture. Olive oil also has a rich flavor that pairs well with both the broccoli and garlic.
Kosher salt: This is used to season the broccoli. It brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables, enhancing their taste.
Fresh pepper: Just a bit of this can add a nice kick to your broccoli. Use it sparingly if you don't want your dish to be too spicy.
One reader, Devonna Coombs says:
This roasted broccoli with smashed garlic recipe is a game-changer! The garlic adds a delicious flavor, and the broccoli turns out perfectly tender and crispy. It's such a simple yet flavorful dish that's become a staple in my kitchen. Highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques for Perfect Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
How to roast broccoli with smashed garlic: A simple and delicious recipe that involves roasting broccoli and garlic until they are tender and browned. This technique requires preheating the oven, combining the broccoli, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a baking dish, and roasting the mixture for about 20 minutes.
How to preheat the oven: Set the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to fully preheat before placing the broccoli in the oven.
How to combine the ingredients: In a baking dish, mix the broccoli florets, smashed garlic, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and fresh pepper until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
How to roast the broccoli: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the broccoli for about 20 minutes, or until it is browned and tender.
How To Make Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
Learn how to create a healthy and delicious side dish with this Roasted Broccoli recipe made with garlic for that sweet and nutty aroma!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbsbroccoli florets,cut long with part of stem
- 6garlic cloves,smashed
- 2tbspextra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt and fresh pepper
Instructions
-
In a baking dish, combine broccoli, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Roast broccoli for about 20 minutes until broccoli is browned and tender.
Nutrition
- Calories: 115.37kcal
- Fat: 7.39g
- Saturated Fat: 1.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.97g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.01g
- Carbohydrates: 10.75g
- Fiber: 0.23g
- Sugar: 0.05g
- Protein: 5.41g
- Sodium: 422.98mg
- Calcium: 92.50mg
- Potassium: 578.24mg
- Iron: 1.67mg
- Vitamin A: 255.29µg
- Vitamin C: 159.93mg
Expert Tip for Perfecting Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
To ensure your broccoli roasts evenly, try to cut the florets into similar sizes. Larger pieces may take longer to cook, while smaller pieces may burn. Also, don't overcrowd the baking dish. Giving the broccoli room to breathe will help it roast and brown nicely instead of steaming.
Time-Saving Tips for Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
Prep ahead: Chop and store the broccoli and garlic in an airtight container in the fridge a day before cooking to save time.
One-pan wonder: Use a sheet pan to roast the broccoli and garlic together, saving time on cleanup and cooking.
High heat: Roast the broccoli at a higher temperature to speed up the cooking process and achieve a delicious caramelized flavor.
Quick chop: Cut the broccoli into smaller florets for faster cooking and more even browning.
Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the broccoli while roasting to avoid overcooking and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic Recipe
broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower can be used as a great substitute for broccoli in this recipe, as it has a similar texture and will roast well with the smashed garlic and olive oil.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic in this recipe to add a mild, sweet flavor and a similar texture when roasted with the broccoli.
Presenting Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
Elevate the broccoli florets: Arrange the roasted broccoli florets in a circular pattern on the plate, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with smashed garlic: Place the smashed garlic cloves strategically around the broccoli, adding a pop of flavor and visual interest to the dish.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil: Carefully drizzle a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the broccoli, adding a glossy finish and enhancing the overall flavor.
Season with kosher salt and fresh pepper: Sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper over the dish, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
Use a minimalist plating approach: Embrace simplicity by using a minimalist plating style, allowing the natural colors and textures of the dish to shine through.
Essential Tools for Making Roasted Broccoli
- Baking dish: A shallow, oven-safe dish used for roasting or baking food in the oven.
- Olive oil: A flavorful and versatile oil used for cooking and dressing salads.
- Kosher salt: A coarse-grained salt used for seasoning and cooking.
- Fresh pepper: Whole peppercorns that are ground to add flavor and spice to dishes.
Storing and Freezing Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
Let the roasted broccoli cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will help prevent the broccoli from becoming soggy and maintain its crisp texture.
Store the cooled roasted broccoli in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to reheat, place the broccoli on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
To freeze the roasted broccoli, place the cooled florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the florets are not touching each other to prevent them from freezing together. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the broccoli is frozen solid.
Once frozen, transfer the broccoli florets to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen roasted broccoli can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When ready to use, remove the desired amount of broccoli from the freezer and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. No need to thaw the broccoli before reheating.
How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover roasted broccoli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the broccoli and toss gently to coat. Roast in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
For a quick and easy reheat, place the leftover roasted broccoli in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can cause the broccoli to become mushy.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and swirl to coat the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover roasted broccoli and smashed garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is heated through and slightly crispy around the edges.
For a flavorful twist, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the leftover roasted broccoli in a baking dish. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes over the broccoli. Roast in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the broccoli is heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to quickly reheat your leftover roasted broccoli. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the broccoli is heated through and slightly crispy.
Interesting Fact About Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic
Broccoli is a great source of vitamins K and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
Is Making Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this roasted broccoli with smashed garlic recipe is high. Broccoli is an affordable and nutritious vegetable, and the addition of garlic and olive oil enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. This dish is a great way to incorporate healthy vegetables into a meal without breaking the bank. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $6-$8, making it a budget-friendly and nutritious option.
Is Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic Healthy?
The roasted broccoli with smashed garlic recipe is a healthy dish that offers several nutritional benefits. Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is particularly high in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. The garlic in the recipe adds flavor and provides compounds like allicin, which has been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
The use of extra virgin olive oil in the recipe is also a positive choice, as it contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. However, the amount of oil used should be monitored, as excessive consumption of any type of fat can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
To further enhance the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used, or opt for a cooking spray to minimize added fat
- Add other nutrient-dense vegetables to the mix, such as red bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms, to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, like red pepper flakes, thyme, or rosemary, to add flavor without increasing calorie content
- Serve the roasted broccoli alongside lean protein sources, such as grilled chicken or tofu, to create a balanced meal
- Consider using a low-sodium salt alternative or reducing the amount of salt used to minimize sodium intake
Editor's Take on This Delicious Roasted Broccoli Recipe
This roasted broccoli with smashed garlic recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare broccoli. The high roasting temperature caramelizes the broccoli, enhancing its natural sweetness, while the smashed garlic infuses the dish with a delicious aroma and flavor. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds a rich and fruity note to the dish, elevating the overall taste. However, to further enhance the dish, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright acidity. Overall, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy broccoli as a side dish or a healthy snack.
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Why trust this Roasted Broccoli with Smashed Garlic Recipe:
This recipe for roasted broccoli with smashed garlic is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their vegetable game. The combination of broccoli and garlic creates a flavorful and aromatic dish that is both healthy and delicious. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds a rich and savory element, while the simple seasoning of kosher salt and fresh pepper enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Trust in the simplicity and quality of these ingredients to deliver a dish that will surely impress your taste buds.
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