Roasted Broccoli
Submitted by: Hannah
Attributed to: Richard
Category: Vegetables
Description: Only fresh broccoli should be used for this recipe, never frozen!
Prep time: 10
Total time: 35
Servings: 4
Difficulty rating: 2
Ingredients:
1 and 1/2 pounds broccoli crowns (roughly 2 heads)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, pressed
Large pinch of dried red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3 tablespoons raw, sliced almonds (with or without skin)
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 – 3 tablespoons freshly grated aged pecorino cheese
Zest of half a lemon
Special tools/utensils needed:
Sheet pan lined with aluminum foil
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit.
Important Note: I use a separate oven thermometer to ensure that my oven is calibrated properly. The high temperature ensures even and deep caramelization (and extra crispy, flavorful florets!). If your oven runs hot (you can check this by using an oven thermometer) or you prefer less crispy florets, reduce the oven temperature to 425F - 450F and adjust cooking time as necessary.
Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil. Trim any dry, tough ends of the broccoli crowns, leaving roughly 2-inches of stalk attached. Slice the broccoli into 1/4 - 1/2 inch-thick steaks, starting in the center of each broccoli crown and working out to the edges, reserving any small or medium florets that fall off for roasting. Slice any large remaining florets in half lengthwise.
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, pressed garlic, and red pepper flakes. Add the broccoli florets and toss gently until evenly coated. Arrange the broccoli, cut-side down, on the lined sheet pan, setting them apart slightly. Sprinkle with salt.
Roast the broccoli for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven, flip the broccoli, and sprinkle the almond slices evenly across the sheet pan. Roast for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is evenly caramelized and fork tender, and the almond slices are toasted and golden.