Charred Broccoli Zesty Lemon (Print)

Vibrant smoky roasted broccoli with lemon zest, Parmesan, and pine nuts for a flavorful salad option.

# Ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets (about 1.1 lbs)
02 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

→ Dressing

03 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
05 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced
06 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
07 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

08 - 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (about 1.4 oz)
09 - 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional)
10 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Set oven to 425°F or preheat air fryer to 400°F.
02 - Toss broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons olive oil, half the lemon zest, sea salt, and black pepper.
03 - Arrange broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet or air fryer basket. Roast or air-fry for 12 to 15 minutes, turning once, until edges are charred and broccoli is just tender.
04 - During the last 5 minutes of roasting, add sliced red onion to the baking sheet or air fryer basket if using.
05 - Whisk remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and remaining lemon zest in a large bowl.
06 - Add hot roasted broccoli and onions to the bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat with the dressing.
07 - Transfer salad to a platter and top with shaved Parmesan, toasted nuts, and chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • The edges get crispy and smoky while the centers stay tender, which is basically the opposite of every broccoli dish you've probably made.
  • It comes together faster than you'd think and tastes even better the next day, so it's perfect for meal prep without feeling like a chore.
  • The lemon and garlic dressing is so bright it makes you forget you're eating something healthy.
02 -
  • Don't crowd the pan when you roast the broccoli because it will steam instead of char, and steamed broccoli is exactly what you're trying to escape.
  • The dressing needs to be made while the broccoli is still hot so it actually absorbs the flavors instead of just sitting on top like an afterthought.
03 -
  • Toast your own nuts in a dry skillet for 2 or 3 minutes right before assembly so they're warm and fragrant against the hot broccoli.
  • If you make this ahead, store the components separately and only dress it within a few hours so the broccoli doesn't get soggy.
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